The Merrill (WI) varsity basketball team will host a conference game against Marshfield (WI) today at 7:15 PM.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Wisconsin High School Basketball
Who: Marshfield vs Merrill
When: Friday, January 17, 2025
Time: 7:00. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here
Game Preview: Marshfield vs Merrill
As the 2024-2025 Wisconsin high school basketball season progresses, an exciting conference matchup is set to take place between Marshfield and Merrill. With Marshfield boasting an impressive conference record and Merrill showing resilience throughout the season, this game will be crucial in shaping the conference standings.
Team Overview & Records
Marshfield Tigers
- Overall Record: 8-4
- Conference Record: 5-0
- Home Record: 3-2
- Away Record: 3-1
- Neutral Site Record: 2-1
- Win Percentage: .667
- Conference Win Percentage: 1.000
- Points For: 700
- Points Against: 596
Marshfield has dominated their conference games, maintaining a perfect record. Their ability to control the tempo and execute on both ends of the floor has been evident throughout the season.
Merrill Bluejays
- Overall Record: 7-6
- Conference Record: 1-3
- Home Record: 4-1
- Away Record: 2-5
- Neutral Site Record: 1-0
- Win Percentage: .538
- Conference Win Percentage: .250
- Points For: 763
- Points Against: 733
Merrill has had a mixed season, showing strength at home with a 4-1 record but struggling on the road. Their performance in conference play has been inconsistent, but they have the ability to challenge strong teams.
Head-to-Head Matchup
The two teams are set to meet twice this season:
- January 17, 2025 – Marshfield travels to Merrill for a key conference game.
- February 21, 2025 – Merrill heads to Marshfield for the rematch.
Marshfield will look to maintain their perfect conference record, while Merrill will aim to improve their standings and prove they can compete with the conference’s best.
Scoring Averages & Key Stats
Marshfield Scoring Trends
- Q1: 23.5 points
- Q2: 6.0 points
- Q3: 24.0 points
- Q4: 6.5 points
- Final: 58.3 points per game
Merrill Scoring Trends
- Final: 58.7 points per game (quarterly breakdown unavailable)
While both teams have similar overall scoring averages, Marshfield’s ability to dominate in the first and third quarters could be a key factor. Merrill will need to find a way to match Marshfield’s energy at the start of each half.
Common Opponent Performance
A comparison of each team’s performance against common opponents provides further insight:
- Marshfield: 5-0 record
- Merrill: 1-3 record
Marshfield has clearly outperformed Merrill against shared opponents, winning key games against D.C. Everest, Wausau East, Stevens Point, and Wausau West. Merrill, meanwhile, has struggled against these teams, indicating that Marshfield may have the upper hand in this matchup.
Key Takeaways for the Upcoming Game
- Marshfield’s Defensive Edge: With only 596 points allowed compared to Merrill’s 733, Marshfield has demonstrated superior defensive capabilities.
- Merrill’s Home Court Advantage: Merrill is 4-1 at home, which could play a significant role in their ability to challenge Marshfield.
- Marshfield’s Dominance in Common Games: The Tigers have had convincing wins over teams that gave Merrill trouble, suggesting they may control the tempo of the game.
- Scoring Consistency: Marshfield’s first and third-quarter dominance will be key. If Merrill can keep pace during these periods, they could stay competitive.
Game Prediction
Marshfield enters as the favorite, given their undefeated conference record and success against common opponents. However, Merrill’s ability to perform well at home adds an element of unpredictability. Expect a competitive game, but Marshfield’s defensive prowess and scoring consistency should give them the edge.
Projected Score: Marshfield 65, Merrill 57
Basketball fans in Wisconsin will surely be watching as these two teams battle it out in a critical conference showdown. Stay tuned for what promises to be an exciting game!
