The Rutland High School varsity basketball team will host Mount Anthony Union High School (Bennington, VT) in a conference game today at 1:30 PM.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Vermont High School Basketball
Who: Mount Anthony vs Rutland
When: Saturday, January 11, 2025
Time: 1:30. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here
Game Preview: Mount Anthony vs Rutland
As the Vermont high school basketball season unfolds, two teams from opposite ends of the standings are set to clash. Mount Anthony, struggling to find its rhythm, will face a formidable Rutland team in a pivotal conference game today at 1:30 PM. The matchup provides an intriguing narrative, showcasing the disparity in performance and momentum between the two squads.
Team Overview and Records
Mount Anthony Patriots
- Overall Record: 1-6
- Home Record: 1-4
- Away Record: 0-2
- Points For (PF): 328
- Points Against (PA): 434
- Winning Percentage: .143
The Mount Anthony Patriots have had a tough season, marked by struggles both at home and on the road. Their offensive output has been limited, averaging just 46.9 points per game, while allowing over 62 points per game defensively. With a lone victory so far, the Patriots will be looking to pull off an upset against a much stronger Rutland squad.
Rutland Raiders
- Overall Record: 5-1
- Home Record: 3-1
- Away Record: 2-0
- Points For (PF): 364
- Points Against (PA): 292
- Winning Percentage: .833
The Rutland Raiders have emerged as one of Vermont’s top teams this season. Their balanced performance at home and on the road, coupled with a dominant offense averaging 60.7 points per game, has propelled them to a stellar record. Defensively, Rutland has held opponents to under 50 points per game, showcasing their ability to control both ends of the court.
Head-to-Head Dynamics
The Patriots and Raiders have yet to face each other this season, adding an air of unpredictability to today’s game. Historically, Rutland has had the upper hand, and their current form suggests they are clear favorites heading into the contest.
Performance Against Common Opponents
A deeper dive into their records against common opponents underscores Rutland’s dominance:
- Mount Anthony: 0-3
- Rutland: 3-0
For example:
- Mount Anthony suffered a 54-45 loss to Spaulding, while Rutland decisively defeated the same team 79-42.
- The Patriots fell to Champlain Valley Union 54-26, whereas Rutland secured a comfortable 52-40 win.
This stark contrast highlights the gulf in quality between the two teams.
Game Preview
Keys to Victory for Mount Anthony
- Defensive Improvements: The Patriots must tighten their defense to counter Rutland’s high-powered offense, particularly in the second half, where the Raiders average 22 points in the fourth quarter alone.
- Limiting Turnovers: Given their underdog status, Mount Anthony cannot afford to give Rutland easy scoring opportunities.
- Balanced Scoring: The team must find consistency in their offensive efforts to keep pace with Rutland.
Keys to Victory for Rutland
- Establish Early Control: The Raiders’ strong first and third quarters (15 points each on average) will be critical to building a lead.
- Capitalizing on Depth: Rutland’s roster depth allows them to maintain intensity throughout the game, a key advantage over Mount Anthony.
- Home Court Advantage: With a solid home record, Rutland will look to energize their performance with the support of their fans.
Upcoming Rematch
Following today’s game, the two teams will meet again on February 11, this time at Mount Anthony. While Rutland is heavily favored, the Patriots will aim to use their home-court advantage to make adjustments and potentially turn the tide.
Final Thoughts
The stage is set for a compelling matchup between two teams with vastly different seasons. While Rutland appears poised to continue their winning ways, Mount Anthony has an opportunity to prove they can rise to the occasion. Regardless of the outcome, this game will offer valuable lessons and momentum as the season progresses.
