The La Salle Academy varsity basketball team (Providence, RI) will host a home conference game against Smithfield (Esmond, RI) on Friday, January 17, 2025, at 7:00 PM.
Here’s what you need Basketball to know:
What: Rhode Island High School Basketball
Who: La Salle Academy vs Smithfield
When: Friday, January 17, 2025
Time: 7:00. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch Here
Smithfield vs. La Salle Academy: A Head-to-Head Basketball Showdown
The upcoming basketball games between the Smithfield (Esmond, RI) and La Salle Academy (Providence, RI) varsity teams are set to be a thrilling series, showcasing two teams with contrasting records and styles of play. Both schools will face off twice in the coming days: the first game will take place at La Salle Academy on January 17 at 7 PM, while the second matchup will be hosted by Smithfield on January 21, also at 7 PM.
Team Overview
Smithfield, with an overall record of 2-6, has faced challenges in its 2024-25 season. The team has struggled in league play, posting a 1-6 record, with a win percentage of just .250. In their six losses, Smithfield has averaged 58.3 points per game while allowing 65.0. The team has seen mixed results at home, with a 2-2 record, but has struggled on the road, winning none of their four away games. Their offense has been led by a strong second half, with 18.0 points per game in the fourth quarter.
In stark contrast, La Salle Academy has been dominating their competition, boasting an impressive 10-1 overall record and a perfect 8-0 league record. They have averaged a solid 69.4 points per game, showing consistency across all four quarters. Their high scoring ability has been evident throughout the season, particularly in the third quarter, where they average 24.3 points. The team’s strength has been their ability to close out games, even in tight contests, such as their 51-49 victory over Classical. With a flawless 6-0 home record, La Salle Academy has been tough to beat on their home court, and they have also posted a solid 4-0 record away.
Head-to-Head History
These two teams have faced several common opponents this season, but their results could not be more different. Smithfield has struggled against these teams, with an overall 0-6 record when facing these common foes. In contrast, La Salle Academy has maintained a perfect 6-0 record against the same set of teams.
Smithfield’s losses include games to Central (79-63), Classical (70-29), East Providence (55-48), Barrington (83-49), North Kingstown (71-64), and Portsmouth (77-61). These losses show that the team has had difficulty keeping up with some of the league’s more powerful teams.
La Salle Academy, however, has been the exact opposite. They have defeated teams like Classical (51-49), Barrington (77-59), North Kingstown (78-61), and Portsmouth (64-57). Their commanding victories and high-scoring offenses have helped them remain undefeated in league play. Their ability to outscore opponents, particularly in the third quarter, has been a key factor in their success.
Scoring Comparisons
When comparing the team scoring averages, the disparity becomes even clearer. Smithfield scores an average of 58.3 points per game, with notable improvements in the second half of games. However, their defense has not been able to match their offensive output, as they allow an average of 65.0 points per game.
La Salle Academy, meanwhile, averages 69.4 points per game, a strong mark for any team. They start strong in the first quarter with 17.0 points, but their scoring explodes in the third quarter with 24.3 points, a period where they outpace most of their competition. The team maintains a solid pace throughout the game, making them a challenging opponent in any situation.
Game Preview: What to Expect
As the teams approach their first meeting on January 17, all eyes will be on how Smithfield can match up against the high-powered La Salle Academy offense. Smithfield will need to tighten up its defense and capitalize on their scoring potential in the second half to stay competitive. The key for Smithfield will be avoiding early deficits and playing well on the road, where they’ve struggled this season.
For La Salle Academy, the game will be an opportunity to maintain their perfect league record and continue their strong play, particularly in the second and third quarters. Their ability to control the game’s tempo and keep their defense tight will likely be a deciding factor. With a perfect record against common opponents, La Salle Academy will look to extend its dominance and take another step toward securing a league title.
Conclusion
The upcoming games between Smithfield and La Salle Academy will be an exciting test for both teams. While La Salle Academy enters as the heavy favorite with its dominant season, Smithfield will be looking to prove themselves on the court, especially in front of their home crowd in the second game. Whether Smithfield can challenge the high-flying La Salle Academy or if the latter will continue its undefeated streak remains to be seen, but it’s sure to be an exciting series for basketball fans in Rhode Island.
