The Payson (UT) varsity basketball team will play a home conference game against Mountain View (Orem, UT) on Friday, January 17, at 7:00 PM.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Utah High School Basketball
Who: Mountain View vs Payson
When: Friday, January 17, 2025
Time: 7:00. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here

Game Preview: Mountain View vs Payson

As the winter sports season heats up in Utah, the Mountain View (Orem) and Payson (UT) high school basketball teams are gearing up for some intense matchups. With both schools having strong performances so far in the 2024-2025 season, all eyes are on the upcoming games and how the teams will stack up against one another.

Mountain View Overview

Mountain View’s basketball team is currently sitting with an overall record of 7-9, and they have faced some challenges in region play, where they are still searching for their first win at 0-2. However, the team has shown potential with a strong home record of 2-1 and a competitive away record of 2-5. The team has struggled on neutral grounds, posting a 3-3 record.

In terms of scoring, Mountain View averages 59.9 points per game. Their leading scorer, Jaxson Hockersmith, is having a stellar season, averaging 14.2 points per game. Hockersmith also leads the team in rebounds, with 7.4 per game. As a team, Mountain View has averaged 25.6 rebounds, 14.5 assists, 8.4 steals, and 2.9 blocks per game.

Payson Overview

Payson’s basketball team, on the other hand, is thriving with an impressive 12-2 record overall and 1-1 in region play. Their remarkable success is seen across the board, with a solid home record of 5-1, a perfect 4-0 away record, and a strong 3-1 neutral game performance. Payson has averaged 65.5 points per game, significantly higher than Mountain View’s scoring average. They are led by Kade Jenson, who scores 11.2 points per game. In addition to scoring, Payson’s Legend Reynoso has been a standout with 6.1 rebounds per game, contributing to their total of 28.2 rebounds per game. Payson also excels in assists, steals, and blocks, averaging 16.2, 9.5, and 2.5 per game, respectively.

Key Matchups

Two highly anticipated matchups between these teams are scheduled in the coming weeks, with the first taking place on Friday, January 17, when Mountain View will visit Payson. The game is set for 7:00 PM and promises to be an exciting showdown, given the contrasting styles of the two teams. The second game will be on Tuesday, February 4, at Mountain View, also scheduled for 7:00 PM.

Head-to-Head Comparison

While both teams have faced common opponents this season, Payson has come out on top in more instances. Mountain View holds a 1-2 record against common opponents, while Payson has an impressive 2-1 record in these games. Both teams have battled against Cedar, with Mountain View securing a close 69-65 win at home, while Payson won their encounter with Cedar 72-45. Payson also defeated Provo 74-61, while Mountain View lost a tight game against Timpanogos, 53-46.

Team Stat Comparison

A quick glance at the statistics highlights the key differences between the two teams:

• Points Per Game: Mountain View 59.9, Payson 65.5
• Rebounds Per Game: Mountain View 25.6, Payson 28.2
• Assists Per Game: Mountain View 14.5, Payson 16.2
• Steals Per Game: Mountain View 8.4, Payson 9.5
• Blocks Per Game: Mountain View 2.9, Payson 2.5

Clearly, Payson has the edge in most statistical categories, but Mountain View’s resilience on the court could make for an interesting matchup, especially as they continue to improve and develop their play in region games.

Player Spotlights

• Mountain View: Jaxson Hockersmith is a standout player, leading the team in both points (14.2) and rebounds (7.4). His performance will be crucial in both the offensive and defensive ends as Mountain View looks to gain momentum in the region.
• Payson: Kade Jenson, with 11.2 points per game, and Legend Reynoso, averaging 6.1 rebounds per game, are key players to watch. Their chemistry and contributions have helped drive Payson’s early success.

Conclusion

As these two teams gear up for their matchups in January and February, both will be looking to prove themselves as top contenders in the region. Payson’s strong overall record and consistent performances suggest they have the upper hand, but Mountain View has the potential to pull off an upset if their key players step up. Regardless of the outcome, both games are sure to deliver exciting basketball, and fans from both schools will be in for a treat.