As we move into the heart of the 2024-2025 high school basketball season in Virginia, two teams are beginning to shape up as contenders: Manchester High School from Midlothian and Deep Run High School from Glen Allen. Both teams have made strong starts to the season and are preparing for their upcoming non-conference matchups. Let’s take a closer look at each team’s performance and key statistics.

Manchester High School

Season Overview: Manchester has posted a 3-2 record overall, with a solid 2-1 standing in the region. The team’s offensive and defensive statistics reflect a balanced approach to the game, averaging 56.2 points per game, while giving up 50 points per game. The team’s scoring averages per quarter are as follows: 19.0 points in the first quarter, 9.5 in the second, 15.0 in the third, and 13.5 in the fourth. This shows that while they start strong, their performance dips in the second quarter, which could be a key area to address going forward.

Key Players:

• Chris Suber has been a standout player for Manchester, leading the team in multiple categories with an average of 13.3 points per game, 7.7 assists, and 3.0 steals per game. His all-around contribution is crucial to Manchester’s success.
• Quentin Morgan has been the team’s primary rebounder, pulling down 7.7 boards per game, while also contributing 2.8 blocks per game.

Upcoming Games: Manchester will face off against Deep Run in two key matchups: first on December 27, 2024, at Deep Run, and then again at home on January 18, 2025. These games are critical as they will give both teams an opportunity to gauge their strengths and weaknesses heading into the latter part of the season.

Deep Run High School

Season Overview: Deep Run has a slightly less impressive 3-3 record overall, with a 3-1 mark in the region. The team has been scoring well, averaging 54.7 points per game, but their defensive statistics are closer to parity, allowing 55 points per game. Deep Run has been particularly strong in the latter stages of games, averaging 60 points in the final quarter, suggesting they are a team that finishes strong and adjusts well in high-pressure situations.

Key Players:

• Chris Suber, though playing for Manchester, is also a key figure to watch in the regional rivalry with Deep Run. On the Deep Run side, the standout player is Jake Thompson, who leads the team with 11.0 points per game.

Upcoming Games: Deep Run will face Manchester at home on December 27, 2024, with the return match scheduled for January 18, 2025. With a 3-1 record in their region, they will look to make a statement against Manchester, particularly on their home court.

Common Opponents & Team Comparisons

Both teams have faced a common opponent in Thomas Dale High School, with Manchester falling 51-47 in their game on December 9, 2024, while Deep Run’s game against Thomas Dale is scheduled for January 13, 2025. Additionally, both teams have faced Cosby High School, with Manchester picking up a win in their previous meeting.

Comparing statistics, both teams show a strong emphasis on team defense, with Manchester averaging 10.8 steals per game and Deep Run not far behind with 10.8 steals per game. The rebounding battle will also be interesting, with Manchester’s Quentin Morgan leading his team’s rebounding efforts at 7.7 boards per game, while Deep Run’s leader in this category is Jake Thompson with 7.0 rebounds per game.

Conclusion

As the 2024-2025 season progresses, both Manchester and Deep Run are poised to make a strong run in their respective regions. With Manchester’s strong start and balanced offense and Deep Run’s resilience in high-pressure moments, both teams will look to continue their momentum in the upcoming matchups. The December 27 and January 18 games will surely be ones to watch as these two teams clash on the court.