The Lewiston (ID) varsity basketball team is set to host a conference game against Lakeland (Rathdrum, ID) on Friday, January 31, at 7:00 PM.
Lewiston vs Lakeland Game Info:
What: Idaho High School Basketball
Who: Lewiston (ID) vs Lakeland (ID)
When: Friday, January 31, 2025
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here
Game preview: Lewiston vs Lakeland
The varsity basketball matchup between Lakeland and Lewiston on January 31 promises to be an intriguing clash. With contrasting records and styles, this conference game carries significant implications for both teams as they progress through the season.
Season Records and Standings
Lakeland: The Lakeland Hawks enter the game with a 7-7 record overall and a 1-4 mark in conference play. They’ve struggled to find consistency, especially in conference matchups, posting a .200 conference winning percentage. Their offense has averaged 55.6 points per game (PPG), but they’ve been outscored by opponents, 810-778, over the season. At home, Lakeland has struggled with just one win in five attempts, while they’ve performed better on neutral courts (3-1).
Lewiston: The Lewiston Bengals boast an impressive 14-1 overall record, including a flawless 3-0 in conference play. With a winning percentage of .933, they’ve dominated both home and away, going undefeated in both settings. Their potent offense averages 65.8 PPG, while their defense has limited opponents to just 706 points this season. Lewiston has clearly established itself as a powerhouse in the conference, sitting at the top with a perfect conference record.
Recent History and Head-to-Head
The two teams faced off last week, with Lewiston narrowly escaping with a 48-47 victory at Lakeland. The game was tightly contested, showcasing both teams’ defensive grit and ability to execute in high-pressure moments. Despite Lakeland’s efforts to defend their home court, Lewiston’s resilience and depth carried them through.
As Lakeland travels to Lewiston for the rematch, they’ll face an even tougher challenge against a Bengals team that has yet to lose at home this season.
Team Scoring Averages
Lakeland has shown strength in the first and third quarters, averaging 19.0 and 18.0 points, respectively. However, their scoring dips in the second and fourth quarters, an area they’ll need to address against Lewiston’s disciplined defense.
Lewiston, on the other hand, has been remarkably consistent. Their highest-scoring quarter is the third (21.2 points), and their offense has proved reliable throughout games. This consistency, paired with a strong defensive unit, has been key to their success.
Common Opponent Insights
Both teams have faced a mix of opponents, with Lewiston generally faring better. Notably:
- Moscow: Both teams secured wins, though Lewiston’s margin (67-36) was significantly larger than Lakeland’s (61-50).
- Sandpoint: Lewiston dominated Sandpoint 72-47, while Lakeland suffered a close 51-49 loss.
- Bonners Ferry: Lewiston stumbled in a narrow 58-55 loss, while Lakeland has yet to face them.
Lewiston’s ability to perform against mutual opponents further highlights their edge in this matchup.
Key Factors to Watch
- Momentum: Lewiston’s confidence is high after their recent win and dominant season. Lakeland will need to dig deep to pull off an upset in a hostile environment.
- Defense: Both teams have shown strong defensive capabilities, as evidenced by their close game last week. Lakeland must find ways to generate offense against Lewiston’s stout defense.
- Closing Quarters: Lakeland’s inconsistency late in games could be a deciding factor. Lewiston’s ability to capitalize in crunch time, as shown in their one-point win, gives them an edge.
Game Outlook
Lewiston enters the rematch as the clear favorite, bolstered by their nearly flawless season and home-court advantage. However, Lakeland’s performance in last week’s nail-biter proves they’re capable of competing with the best. For Lakeland, a win could reinvigorate their season and serve as a turning point. For Lewiston, maintaining their dominance will solidify their status as conference leaders.
Tipoff is set for Friday, January 31, at 7 p.m. in Lewiston. Fans can expect another thrilling battle as these teams continue their conference journeys.
