The Pleasant Grove (UT) varsity basketball team will host a non-conference game against Mountain View (Orem, UT) at home today at 7:00 PM.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Utah High School Basketball
Who: Mountain View vs Pleasant Grove
When: Friday, December 20, 2024
Time: 7:00. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here

Game Preview: Mountain View vs Pleasant Grove

The 2024-2025 high school basketball season has been an exciting one for Utah teams, with Mountain View and Pleasant Grove showcasing their skills in closely contested games. Both teams, with identical 3-5 records, have displayed resilience and determination, setting the stage for a compelling rivalry. Here’s a detailed look at their performances, strengths, and key players.

Team Comparisons

Records and Standings

Both Mountain View and Pleasant Grove share a 3-5 overall record, with Mountain View performing slightly better at home (2-0) compared to Pleasant Grove’s 1-2. On the road, however, Pleasant Grove edges out Mountain View, holding a 2-3 record versus Mountain View’s 1-3. Neither team has played playoff or league games this season, leaving their future potential open for speculation.

Scoring and Stats

Scoring Averages

• Mountain View: Averaging 60.1 points per game, Mountain View has been consistent, with its strongest quarters being the second and third, averaging 15.6 and 15.5 points, respectively.
• Pleasant Grove: Scoring 61.3 points per game, Pleasant Grove excels in the latter half, with a standout 17.9 points in the third quarter.

Key Statistical Differences

• Rebounds: Mountain View dominates with 24.6 rebounds per game compared to Pleasant Grove’s 21.0.
• Assists: Mountain View again leads with 14.0 assists per game, but Pleasant Grove is not far behind at 12.0.
• Defense: Mountain View shows more aggression defensively, recording 7.9 steals per game versus Pleasant Grove’s 4.7. However, Pleasant Grove has the edge in blocks, averaging 2.4 per game compared to Mountain View’s 1.9.

Player Highlights

Mountain View Leaders

• Jaxson Hockersmith (#11): A dual threat, Hockersmith leads the team in points (13.6 per game) and rebounds (5.8 per game).
• Kevin Lewis (#0): The primary playmaker with 2.8 assists per game.
• Joshua Hair (#23): A defensive powerhouse with 1.7 steals and 0.7 blocks per game.

Pleasant Grove Leaders

• Jaxon Brown (#4): The team’s top scorer (12.7 points per game) and a key shot blocker (1.2 per game).
• Brennan Blackett (#32): Dominates the boards with 5.3 rebounds per game.
• Ty Palmer (#2): A versatile contributor, leading in both assists (3.8 per game) and steals (1.5 per game).

Head-to-Head and Common Opponents

Both teams share a 1-1 record against common opponents. Mountain View secured a 72-65 win over Cedar Valley but fell to Skyridge 54-42. Similarly, Pleasant Grove beat Cedar Valley decisively (66-45) but has yet to play Skyridge.

Outlook and Predictions

The statistics highlight the balanced nature of these teams. Mountain View’s rebounding and defensive prowess could tilt the scales, but Pleasant Grove’s scoring depth and late-game surge make them formidable contenders.

A potential matchup between the two would likely come down to execution in critical moments. Can Mountain View capitalize on their defensive strength? Or will Pleasant Grove’s offensive firepower prevail? Either way, Utah high school basketball fans are in for an exciting showdown.