The Vermont high school basketball season is heating up, and one of the most anticipated matchups of the year is just around the corner. Mt. Mansfield Union High School (Jericho, VT) will travel to St. Johnsbury Academy (St. Johnsbury, VT) for a pivotal conference showdown on Friday, January 10, 2025, at 7 p.m. With both teams showcasing strong performances so far, this game is expected to be a defining moment in their respective seasons.

Team Records and Rankings

Mt. Mansfield Cougars

• Overall Record: 4-2
• District Record: 4-2
• Home Record: 1-0
• Away Record: 3-2
• Points For (PF): 329
• Points Against (PA): 301
• Division Rank: 10

The Cougars have been consistent this season, winning two-thirds of their games and boasting a balanced offense and defense. They are ranked 10th in their division, with notable victories against strong opponents such as North Country Union and Champlain Valley Union.

St. Johnsbury Academy Hilltoppers

• Overall Record: 5-2
• District Record: 1-2
• Home Record: 2-0
• Away Record: 3-1
• Neutral Record: 0-1
• Points For (PF): 417
• Points Against (PA): 366
• Division Rank: 3

Ranked 3rd in their division, the Hilltoppers have proven to be a formidable team, especially at home, where they remain unbeaten. Their high-scoring offense, averaging 59.6 points per game, makes them a dangerous opponent.

Statistical Comparison

• Offensive Power: St. Johnsbury has the edge, averaging 59.6 points per game compared to Mt. Mansfield’s 54.8.
• Defensive Prowess: Mt. Mansfield has allowed fewer points overall (301 to St. Johnsbury’s 366), indicating a stronger defense.
• Scoring Trends: St. Johnsbury tends to dominate early, averaging 20 points in the first quarter and 21 in the second, while their scoring dips significantly in the fourth quarter.

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced several common opponents, with Mt. Mansfield holding a 4-2 record against these shared rivals compared to St. Johnsbury’s 3-2. Notable results include:

• Vs. North Country Union: Mt. Mansfield secured two decisive wins, while St. Johnsbury has yet to face them.
• Vs. Rice Memorial: Mt. Mansfield lost their only game, while St. Johnsbury will play them later in the season.
• Vs. Bellows Free Academy: St. Johnsbury dominated with a 75-41 victory, while Mt. Mansfield’s matchup is forthcoming.

Upcoming Showdowns

• January 10, 2025: Mt. Mansfield visits St. Johnsbury Academy.
• February 11, 2025: St. Johnsbury travels to Mt. Mansfield for the return conference game.

Game Outlook

This Friday’s matchup is crucial for both teams. Mt. Mansfield looks to solidify their standing with a road win, while St. Johnsbury aims to maintain their perfect home record. The Hilltoppers’ fast-paced offense will test the Cougars’ disciplined defense. Key players on both sides will need to step up in what promises to be a thrilling battle.

Will Mt. Mansfield’s balanced approach prevail, or will St. Johnsbury’s scoring machine prove too much to handle? Fans won’t want to miss this exciting clash of Vermont basketball powerhouses.