The Liberty (Henderson, NV) varsity basketball team is set to play a home conference game against Durango (Las Vegas, NV) today at 6:30 PM.

Game Information:

Durango vs. Liberty Basketball
Friday, January 17, 2025
Tip-off: 6:30 PM
Location: Liberty High School, Henderson, NV

• Live stream: Watch Here

Durango vs. Liberty: A Basketball Showdown of Strengths and Struggles

As the 2024-2025 basketball season continues to unfold, the rivalry between Durango and Liberty is one that captures the attention of fans and analysts alike. Both teams have had their share of highs and lows, but their performances this season showcase a competitive clash. With contrasting records, strengths, and key players, the matchup promises to be a thrilling encounter.

Team Overview

Durango (24-25) enters the season with an 11-7 overall record. Despite a rocky start in league play (0-4), the team has found success in non-league games, boasting a solid 3-2 record. Their offensive performance has been strong, averaging 62.3 points per game. With a focus on balanced scoring, the team has leaned heavily on their leader, Elijah Outlaw-Mcdaniels, who leads with an impressive 17.7 points per game. Additionally, Aleksander Baletic has made his presence felt with 7.6 rebounds per game, while Justin Morrow contributes across the board with both steals (2.4 per game) and assists (2.0 per game).

Liberty, on the other hand, holds a 7-9 overall record but has struggled even more in league play, registering only a 1-3 mark. However, Liberty has exhibited resilience, especially in recent non-league matchups, with a 5-4 record in neutral or home games. Their offensive efforts average 62.1 points per game, not far behind Durango. Liberty’s star player, Jaden Riley, stands out with 15.8 points per game and plays a central role in the team’s performance. Riley also leads the team in assists (3.1 per game) and steals (1.4 per game). Meanwhile, Taytum Cios-Webb has dominated the boards with 8.1 rebounds per game, setting up Liberty as a formidable opponent on both ends of the court.

Statistical Comparison

When comparing overall stats, Durango and Liberty are closely matched in several categories. Durango averages 48.5 points per game, while Liberty holds a slight edge with 61.1 points per game. Both teams struggle with rebounds, with Liberty averaging 29.9 and Durango 21.3, but Liberty compensates with a higher assist rate (15.3 per game compared to 7.3). Durango shines defensively, averaging 8.9 steals per game, compared to Liberty’s 8.3 steals. Both teams have strong defensive presence, with Liberty averaging 2 blocks per game and Durango 1.8.

Key Players

The standout players for each team bring their A-game to every matchup. Elijah Outlaw-Mcdaniels, with 17.7 points per game, drives Durango’s offense, while Jaden Riley leads Liberty with 15.8 points per game and plays an integral role in facilitating the offense. On the boards, Taytum Cios-Webb (8.1 rebounds per game) provides Liberty with a critical advantage in securing second-chance opportunities, while Aleksander Baletic (7.6 rebounds per game) keeps Durango competitive in that area. Defensively, Justin Morrow (2.4 steals per game) stands out for Durango, while Jaden Riley also plays a pivotal defensive role for Liberty.

Record Breakdown

The season’s statistics show how both teams have had contrasting paths. Durango’s 11-7 record includes strong performances at home (4-2), as well as a solid neutral-game performance (2-0). Their struggles have mainly come in league play, where they remain winless (0-4). Liberty, with a 7-9 record, has faced similar difficulties in league play (1-3), but their resilience shines through with a 5-4 record in non-league games.

Common Opponents

When analyzing how Durango and Liberty have fared against common opponents, the results are telling. Both teams have faced off against the likes of Mojave, Coronado, and Spring Valley with mixed results. Durango’s record against common opponents stands at 1-4, while Liberty performs slightly better at 1-3. Notably, Liberty’s victory over Spring Valley (90-50) stands out, while Durango narrowly defeated Spring Valley 54-49.

Upcoming Matchups

Both teams have a packed schedule ahead. Durango will look to strengthen its position with games against Las Vegas, Centennial, and Foothill. Liberty, facing off against teams like Mojave and Coronado, will look to turn their fortunes around and secure vital league victories. Both teams are positioned to make a run as the season progresses, with each squad eyeing key matchups that could influence their playoff hopes.

Conclusion

In the rivalry between Durango and Liberty, both teams show flashes of brilliance but also struggle to maintain consistency in league play. Durango, with a stronger overall record, leans on their defense and balanced scoring, while Liberty remains dangerous with their standout player Jaden Riley and stronger rebounding presence. As the season continues, both teams will look to capitalize on their strengths and address their weaknesses, promising an exciting conclusion to this competitive season.