The James F. Byrnes Varsity Basketball team (Duncan, SC) will play a home game against Columbia (SC) in the Byrnes Christmas Tournament today at 7:30 p.m.

Here’s what you need to Basketball know:

What: South Carolina High School Basketball
Who: James F. Byrnes vs Columbia
When: Friday, December 20, 2024
Time: 7:30. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch Here

Columbia vs. James F. Byrnes: A Comparative Analysis of Their 2024-2025 Seasons

As the 2024-2025 high school basketball season progresses, two teams have been standing out in South Carolina’s competitive landscape: Columbia and James F. Byrnes. While both teams have had impressive performances, they have taken very different paths to their respective records. Let’s take a closer look at how these two teams stack up, from their overall records to individual player performances.

Overall Performance and Record Breakdown

Columbia (3-5, .375 Win Percentage) has faced some challenges this season but has shown potential. With a 2-3 record at home and 1-1 on the road, Columbia’s performance has fluctuated. Despite their struggles, they remain competitive with an average of 47.8 points per game. Their 3-3 record in non-league games reflects their ability to challenge teams outside of their region, though their in-state record (3-5) suggests that they still need to fine-tune certain aspects of their game to achieve consistent success.

On the other hand, James F. Byrnes (8-0, 1.000 Win Percentage) has been flawless this season, winning all of their games thus far. This perfect record is not just a result of playing weak opponents—Byrnes has dominated both at home (5-0) and on the road (2-0), with a perfect 1-0 record in neutral-site games. Their 7-0 record in-state further underscores their dominance, and their high-scoring performances (81.1 points per game) have made them one of the most formidable teams in the region.

Scoring and Stat Comparison

Looking at the team scoring averages, the contrast is clear. Columbia averages 47.8 points per game, with their offensive output distributed fairly evenly across quarters—9.0 points in the first, 11.0 in the second, 15.0 in the third, and 10.5 in the fourth. While Columbia has had its moments, their total scoring still falls short compared to the high-scoring Byrnes team.

James F. Byrnes, in stark contrast, has a potent offense, averaging 81.1 points per game. The team’s ability to score consistently throughout the game is a major factor in their undefeated season. Byrnes’ offensive production is a well-oiled machine, with averages of 20.2 in the first quarter, 19.2 in the second, 19.6 in the third, and 18.4 in the fourth quarter.

Key Players to Watch

Both teams feature standout players, and their individual performances have had significant impacts on their teams’ success.

• Columbia’s leading scorer and playmaker is Colt Fowler. Averaging 16.1 points per game, Fowler is also Columbia’s primary distributor, with an impressive 11.3 assists per game. His ability to both score and facilitate makes him a central figure in Columbia’s offense. Additionally, Fabian McClintock leads the team in rebounds (6.4 per game) and steals (1.3 per game), showing his versatility and all-around contributions.
• For James F. Byrnes, the team’s success is a collective effort, but Jamari Cullen is a key defensive presence, with 1.3 blocks per game, while contributing 5.3 points. Byrnes also boasts a strong all-around game with leaders like Fabian McClintock, who averages 6.4 rebounds per game and 1.3 steals, showing his influence on both ends of the floor.

Statistical Breakdown

• Points Per Game: Columbia averages 47.8 points per game, while Byrnes leads with a high-scoring average of 81.1 points.
• Rebounds Per Game: Columbia grabs 34.3 rebounds per game, while Byrnes averages 34.3 as well, with a greater team-wide balance in their contribution.
• Assists Per Game: Columbia leads in assists with an average of 18.1 per game, while Byrnes records 18.1 assists per game as well.
• Steals Per Game: Columbia records 5.7 steals per game compared to Byrnes’ 5.7.

Conclusion

The 2024-2025 basketball season has showcased contrasting paths for Columbia and James F. Byrnes. Columbia, though competitive, faces challenges in consistently putting together a complete performance, especially in high-scoring games. On the other hand, James F. Byrnes has proven to be a powerhouse, with their undefeated record and high offensive output.

With Columbia aiming to build on their strengths, especially in the playmaking and defense sectors, the team could continue to improve as the season progresses. However, Byrnes remains the team to beat in South Carolina, combining a deep roster with impressive offense and defense.

As the season moves forward, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Columbia adjusts and if James F. Byrnes can maintain their perfect record throughout the remainder of the campaign.