The New Kent (VA) varsity basketball team will play a home non-conference game against Lancaster (VA) today at 7:30 PM.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Virginia High School Basketball
Who: Lancaster vs New Kent
When: Today, December 28, 2024
Time: 7:30. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here

Game Preview: Lancaster vs New Kent

The 2024-25 Virginia high school basketball season has provided exciting matchups, with teams like Lancaster and New Kent leading their respective regions with impressive records. This article takes a closer look at the performance of both schools based on their current standings, scoring averages, and team stats, offering a comprehensive comparison of their strengths and weaknesses.

Team Overview

Lancaster has had a mixed start to the season, with an overall record of 3-3. Their home record stands at 2-1, while they have struggled a bit on the road with a 1-2 record. Lancaster’s scoring average of 60.7 points per game places them at a solid middle range among the competition. However, their defense has been inconsistent, with 379 points allowed across six games, resulting in a negative point differential.

New Kent, on the other hand, has been near perfect, boasting an undefeated record of 8-0. Their perfect region performance, including a 5-0 record in region games and 3-0 at home, highlights their dominance. New Kent’s team has an outstanding scoring average of 79.6 points per game, significantly higher than Lancaster’s, and their defensive play has been just as strong, giving up only 436 points across eight games.

Scoring and Offensive Strategies

Looking at scoring patterns, Lancaster does not have a breakdown of its individual quarter scoring, but their overall average of 60.7 points per game indicates they are a balanced team, likely focused on maintaining consistent scoring throughout the game.

In contrast, New Kent has shown notable scoring consistency, averaging 28.5 points in the first quarter alone, with a slight drop in subsequent periods. Their final-quarter scoring is particularly strong, with an average of 15 points, proving their ability to close games with effective offense. New Kent also utilizes overtime well, scoring 8 points in the extra period, suggesting they are resilient and ready for high-pressure situations.

Team Statistics: Lancaster vs. New Kent

When it comes to statistical comparisons, New Kent’s numbers are generally more impressive across the board.

• Points Per Game: Lancaster has a solid 60.7 PPG, but New Kent outperforms them with 79.6 PPG.
• Rebounds Per Game: Lancaster’s leading rebounder, Kyle Diggs, averages 9.7 RPG, showcasing his importance in the paint, while New Kent is slightly lower with a team average of 32.4 RPG.
• Assists Per Game: Lancaster’s 19.6 assists per game highlight their strong team play, with Kyle Diggs also leading in assists at 4.9 per game.
• Steals Per Game: Lancaster’s defense shines with 16.6 steals per game, and standout player Will Ross contributes 4.0 steals per game.
• Blocks Per Game: Lancaster leads here with 1.9 blocks per game, with Kris Leeper leading the team with 0.6 blocks.

New Kent also has a strong defensive presence, but Lancaster’s superior steals and blocking stats suggest they rely more on aggressive defensive tactics.

Head-to-Head and Common Opponents

Lancaster and New Kent share some common opponents this season. Both teams faced Hanover, with Lancaster suffering a defeat (68-52) on December 27, 2024. New Kent will face Hanover on December 28, 2024, and a win could further cement their dominance in their region.

Team Leaders

• Lancaster: Kyle Diggs has been the standout player for Lancaster, leading in points (18.1), rebounds (9.7), and assists (4.9) per game, establishing himself as a versatile and key figure on the court.
• New Kent: New Kent’s team leader is a balanced offensive and defensive player, contributing significantly to the team’s success. Their consistency and depth across all positions have helped them remain undefeated.

Conclusion

As the 2024-25 Virginia high school basketball season progresses, Lancaster and New Kent are shaping up to be two of the top teams in the state. While Lancaster has had its challenges, its aggressive defensive strategy and standout player Kyle Diggs keep them competitive. New Kent, however, has demonstrated nearly flawless play with an explosive offense and tight defense, making them a formidable contender as they look to maintain their perfect record.

Both teams’ performances will be exciting to follow as they continue through the season and head toward potential playoff contention. Fans of Virginia high school basketball can expect to see more thrilling matchups as these teams strive for greatness.