The Humboldt (IA) varsity basketball team will host a conference game against Clear Lake (IA) on Friday, January 31, at 7:30 PM.

Humboldt vs Clear Lake Game Info:

What: Iowa High School Basketball
Who: Humboldt (IA) vs Clear Lake (IA)
When: Friday, January 31, 2025
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here

Game preview: Humboldt vs Clear Lake

The stage is set for an exciting rematch as the Clear Lake Lions travel to take on the Humboldt Wildcats in a pivotal conference matchup on Friday, January 31, at 7:30 p.m. With Clear Lake remaining undefeated and Humboldt seeking to avenge their previous loss, this game promises to be a thrilling encounter between two top-tier teams.

Team Performance Overview

Clear Lake (17-0, 7-0 Conference)

The Clear Lake Lions have been a dominant force this season, maintaining a perfect record with an impressive 17-0 overall and 7-0 in conference play. Their well-rounded offense and stifling defense have propelled them to the top of Class 3A. They have outscored opponents 1,239 to 778, displaying both efficiency and resilience throughout the season.

Humboldt (11-5, 6-2 Conference)

Humboldt has also put together a strong campaign, standing at 11-5 overall and 6-2 in conference action. Despite some tough losses, the Wildcats have shown their ability to compete at a high level. They have scored a total of 1,190 points while conceding 1,054, indicating their offensive firepower but also the need for improved defensive play.

Scoring Averages & Key Matchups

Both teams boast high-scoring offenses, making this an exciting contest to watch.

• Clear Lake’s Scoring Averages: 16.3 (Q1), 18.9 (Q2), 20.9 (Q3), 15.7 (Q4) – Final: 72.9 PPG
• Humboldt’s Scoring Averages: 16.5 (Q1), 15.3 (Q2), 20.8 (Q3), 17.8 (Q4) – Final: 74.4 PPG

While Humboldt has a slightly higher overall scoring average, Clear Lake’s consistency in every quarter gives them an edge in maintaining control of the game. Additionally, the Lions have shown a balanced attack that allows them to close out games efficiently.

Previous Meeting: Clear Lake Dominates

The last time these two teams faced off on December 20, Clear Lake secured a decisive 74-53 victory over Humboldt.

• Quarter-by-Quarter Breakdown:
  • Humboldt: 10 | 6 | 16 | 21 – 53
  • Clear Lake: 17 | 16 | 24 | 17 – 74

Clear Lake’s ability to take control early in the game played a crucial role in their win, as they built a comfortable lead by halftime. Humboldt will need a strong start and improved defensive execution to prevent a similar outcome this time around.

Common Opponents & Performance Trends

Both teams have faced several common opponents this season, with Clear Lake holding a slight advantage in performance:

• Clear Lake: 9-0 against common opponents
• Humboldt: 8-1 against common opponents

Notably, Clear Lake defeated Algona by 39 points (82-43), whereas Humboldt edged them out with an 8-point victory (73-65). Similarly, Clear Lake’s 81-32 win over Clarion-Goldfield/Dows was more dominant compared to Humboldt’s 65-56 victory over the same team.

Keys to Victory

For Clear Lake:

• Maintain defensive intensity, particularly in the second half, where Humboldt tends to score more.
• Continue their balanced offensive approach to exploit defensive weaknesses.
• Limit turnovers and control the tempo to prevent Humboldt from gaining momentum.

For Humboldt:

• Improve first-half scoring to avoid falling behind early.
• Tighten defensive rotations to limit Clear Lake’s high-percentage shots.
• Capitalize on home-court advantage to energize their play and push for an upset.

Prediction & Final Thoughts

Clear Lake enters this game as the favorite, given their undefeated record and dominant performance in the previous matchup. However, Humboldt has the offensive capability to make this a closer contest, especially on their home floor. If Humboldt can execute a stronger defensive game plan and start fast, they may have a chance to pull off an upset.

Projected Score:

• Clear Lake 76, Humboldt 65

Regardless of the outcome, this game will be a crucial test for both teams as they gear up for postseason play. Expect a high-energy, competitive showdown between two top-tier programs in Class 3A basketball.