The Independence High School varsity basketball team from Charlotte, NC, will face Lancaster High School from South Carolina in a neutral, non-conference matchup. This game is part of the Phenom Hoops New Year’s Bash Showcase and is scheduled for Friday, December 27, 2024, at 1:30 PM.
Here’s what you need Basketball to know:
What: South Carolina High School Basketball
Who: Independence vs Lancaster
When: Friday, December 27, 2024
Time: 1:30. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch Here
Lancaster vs. Independence: A Statistical Showdown
The basketball seasons for Lancaster and Independence have been defined by dominant performances and impressive records. Both teams boast high rankings and formidable stats, making their potential matchup a clash worth anticipating. Let’s dive into the numbers to compare these two teams and their key players.
Team Rankings and Records
Lancaster holds an overall record of 8-1 with a strong performance at home (4-0) and away (3-0). The team averages 69.7 points per game (PPG), a testament to their offensive firepower, while holding opponents to 52.7 points per game (PA). They are currently ranked 5th in SC and 4th in their class.
Independence edges Lancaster slightly in win percentage, with a 9-1 record and a .900 win rate. They have been especially dominant on the road, going 6-0, and are ranked 15th in NC and 3rd in their class. Their scoring average is 61.6 PPG, with opponents scoring an average of 47.2 points.
Team Scoring Trends
Lancaster’s scoring consistency stands out, with strong outputs across all quarters. They average:
- 17.4 points in Q1
- 14.3 points in Q2
- 18.5 points in Q3
- 18.4 points in Q4
Independence, on the other hand, is strongest in the second quarter, averaging 17.5 points, but lags slightly in the first and third quarters.
Statistical Comparisons
| Category | Lancaster | Independence |
|---|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 69.7 | 61.6 |
| Rebounds Per Game | 24.9 | 28.3 |
| Assists Per Game | 11.1 | 11.2 |
| Steals Per Game | 8.2 | 10.3 |
| Blocks Per Game | 3.6 | 3.5 |
Independence excels in rebounding (28.3 RPG) and steals (10.3 SPG), while Lancaster takes the edge in scoring and blocks.
Key Players to Watch
For Lancaster, Jordan Watford (#0) is the undisputed leader, leading the team in multiple categories:
- 24.4 PPG
- 6.8 RPG
- 4.8 APG
- 2.3 SPG
- 2.6 BPG
Independence counters with Jaxson Neely (#23), who averages:
- 12.7 PPG
- 8.1 RPG
- 2.5 SPG
Additionally, Kaleb Jasper (#12) contributes significantly with 4.9 APG, while Lusemo Macharia (#1) adds defensive strength with 1.4 BPG.
Common Opponents
Both teams faced Palisades this season with contrasting results:
- Lancaster defeated Palisades convincingly, 62-50.
- Independence fell short against the same opponent, losing 51-45.
This difference might give Lancaster a psychological edge.
Record Breakdown
| Category | Lancaster | Independence |
|---|---|---|
| Home | 4-0 | 3-1 |
| Away | 3-0 | 6-0 |
| Neutral | 1-1 | 0-0 |
| In-State | 6-0 | 8-1 |
| Out-of-State | 2-1 | 1-0 |
Independence has been nearly unbeatable on the road, while Lancaster has shown resilience in both in-state and out-of-state matchups.
Conclusion
Lancaster and Independence bring different strengths to the court, setting the stage for an exciting contest if they meet. Lancaster’s offensive dominance and Jordan Watford’s stellar performances could be the deciding factor, but Independence’s defensive intensity and rebounding edge make them a formidable opponent.
Basketball fans should keep an eye on these two powerhouses as the season progresses—this matchup has all the makings of a classic.
