As the Vermont high school basketball season heats up, one of the most anticipated matchups on the horizon is between the Montpelier Solons and the Harwood Highlanders. With both teams showing strong performances early in the season, this game promises to be an exciting contest.

Team Overview

Montpelier (2024-2025 Season)

The Montpelier Solons enter this matchup with an overall record of 3-1. They’ve had a strong start to their season, going undefeated in district play with a perfect 1-0 record. At home, Montpelier has yet to lose, boasting a 2-0 record, while they’ve been more evenly matched on the road, holding a 1-1 record. The Solons have been averaging 70.3 points per game, led by the dynamic Carson Cody, who’s putting up 19.3 points per game.

Defensively, Montpelier has been solid, with 27.7 rebounds, 18.7 assists, 3.3 steals, and 1.7 blocks per game. Key contributors such as Atif Milak, who averages 8.7 rebounds, and Carter Bruzzese with 5.7 assists per game, have helped the team maintain its competitive edge.

Harwood (2024-2025 Season)

The Harwood Highlanders, with a 1-0 record so far, are coming off a dominating performance at home. They’ve shown early promise, particularly in their home games, where they are undefeated at 1-0. However, Harwood has yet to face significant competition on the road. Their scoring has been efficient, averaging 65 points per game. While they may not have the offensive depth of Montpelier, their balanced team play will be key in upcoming matchups.

Head-to-Head Matchup

The upcoming game between Montpelier and Harwood on Friday, December 27 at Harwood (Moretown, VT) promises to be a thrilling one. Both teams have shown flashes of excellence, and with Montpelier’s high-scoring offense and Harwood’s solid team defense, the game is expected to be closely contested.

Common Opponents

Both teams will face similar opponents this season, which could provide additional context for comparing their performance. For example, Montpelier recently defeated Lamoille with a dominant 83-61 scoreline on December 23, while Harwood will face Lamoille later on December 30. Other common opponents include U-32, Spaulding, and Peoples Academy, which will give fans further insight into how these teams measure up as the season progresses.

Team Leaders

For Montpelier, Carson Cody has been the focal point of the offense, with 19.3 points per game. Milak’s work on the boards has been vital, as he leads the team with 8.7 rebounds per game. Bruzzese has been the primary playmaker with 5.7 assists per game, contributing to the team’s fast-paced offense. Milak’s defensive presence is also felt, as he leads the team with 1.3 blocks per game.

On the Harwood side, the team has not yet recorded significant individual statistics in the same way as Montpelier, but their strong team-oriented approach could provide a challenge for Montpelier’s stars.

Game Preview

Montpelier’s next game on Friday, December 27 against Harwood will be an excellent opportunity for the Solons to showcase their offensive firepower, led by Cody and supported by their depth. On the other hand, Harwood will need to step up their offensive game to keep pace with Montpelier’s high-scoring attack. With the potential for a fast-paced game, the Highlanders will need to rely on their defense and execution to stay competitive.

Both teams will also be looking ahead to their January 22 rematch at Montpelier, where the Solons will look to defend their home court.

Conclusion

The Montpelier vs. Harwood game on December 27 is set to be a high-energy battle with a lot at stake early in the season. While Montpelier has the advantage in scoring, Harwood’s undefeated record at home could give them the upper hand. This matchup will likely set the tone for both teams as they continue their campaigns through the season.

Fans of Vermont high school basketball should not miss this thrilling contest!