The Ankeny Centennial varsity basketball team (Ankeny, IA) will play a home non-conference game against Johnston (IA) today at 6:15 p.m.
Johnston vs Ankeny Centennial Basketball Game Info:
What: Iowa High School Basketball
Who: Johnston vs Ankeny Centennial
When: Friday, January 3, 2025
Time: 6:15 PM
Live stream: Watch here
Game preview: Johnston vs Ankeny Centennial
As the 2024-2025 Iowa high school girls’ varsity basketball season progresses, one of the most anticipated matchups will take place between the Johnston Dragons and the Ankeny Centennial Jaguars. With both teams boasting impressive records and a strong presence in the state rankings, this non-conference clash promises to be a thrilling encounter.
Johnston’s Unbeaten Streak
Johnston comes into the game with an undefeated record of 8-0, which has placed them at the top of both the Iowa and Class 5A rankings. Their dominance on the court is evident, with a perfect 5-0 record in conference play and a flawless 3-0 mark in away games. The Dragons have been an offensive powerhouse, averaging 63.3 points per game, showcasing their ability to put up significant scores. With such a strong team, including key wins over Southeast Polk, Waukee, Ankeny, Northwest, and Urbandale, Johnston has demonstrated not only offensive firepower but also the ability to shut down their opponents.
Ankeny Centennial’s Strong Performance
On the other hand, Ankeny Centennial enters the matchup with a 6-1 record, which ranks them highly within the state. Their only loss so far came in a tight conference game, where they fell 0-1 in league play. Despite the loss, Ankeny Centennial has been incredibly strong in non-league games, winning all four of their away games and holding a solid 2-1 record in neutral-site matchups. Their average of 57.3 points per game, with a standout 23.0 points per quarter in the fourth quarter, highlights their resilience and ability to close out games in dramatic fashion.
Head-to-Head Breakdown
The upcoming game will not only showcase two of the state’s top teams but also bring a deeper look into how each squad fares against common opponents. Both teams have been highly successful when facing similar competition:
- Johnston holds a perfect 5-0 record against common opponents, with key victories over Southeast Polk (57-42), Waukee (68-28), Ankeny (72-36), Northwest (59-42), and Urbandale (65-30).
- Ankeny Centennial, meanwhile, boasts a 4-1 record against common opponents, with wins against Northwest, Urbandale, Ankeny, and Valley, though they lost a narrow game to Southeast Polk 48-47.
Looking Ahead
Both teams are in great form and will likely come into the game with high expectations. As Johnston continues to dominate with its balanced and consistent play, Ankeny Centennial will look to leverage their ability to perform in the clutch, especially in the later stages of the game. Fans can expect a thrilling contest between these two highly skilled teams.
The game is set for 6:15 PM today at Ankeny Centennial High School, and will be a crucial moment in determining the early frontrunners in the Iowa girls’ basketball landscape.
Common Opponents & Future Matchups
In addition to their direct clash, both teams will face several more common opponents over the next few weeks, including upcoming games against Southeast Polk, Waukee, Valley, and Prairie. These matchups will serve as important tests for both teams as they continue to refine their gameplay and strategies leading up to the postseason.
Johnston’s consistent dominance and Ankeny Centennial’s thrilling fourth-quarter play will make this game one to watch. As the teams prepare to meet again on February 4, 2025, fans will surely be looking forward to this exciting rivalry. Stay tuned as these top-ranked teams battle for supremacy on the court.
