As the 2024-2025 Vermont high school basketball season gets underway, both Mt. St. Joseph Academy (MSJ) and Mt. Abraham Union High School are looking to build momentum. Despite slow starts for both teams, there’s plenty of basketball ahead, with matchups and rivalries that promise excitement and development.

Season Performance Overview

Mt. St. Joseph Academy enters the season with a 0-3 record, including two home losses and one on the road. The team has averaged 41 points per game (PPG), scoring a total of 123 points while allowing 179. Meanwhile, Mt. Abraham has played just one game, a 39-51 loss on the road, giving them an 0-1 start. They are averaging 39 PPG. Both teams are still searching for their first win of the season.

Upcoming Head-to-Head Matchups

The first clash between these two teams is just days away, as MSJ will travel to Bristol, Vermont, to face Mt. Abraham on Friday, December 27, at 7 p.m. The reverse fixture will occur on January 10 in Rutland, Vermont, at MSJ’s home court. These non-conference games will be critical for both teams to gain confidence and establish rhythm as they look ahead to the remainder of the season.

Common Opponents Analysis

Both teams have a shared list of upcoming opponents, including Otter Valley, Enosburg Falls, and Fair Haven, among others. So far, MSJ has faced Otter Valley, falling narrowly in a 57-50 defeat. Mt. Abraham has yet to play against any common opponents. These shared matchups will provide a benchmark to assess the progress of both squads throughout the season.

Team Challenges and Opportunities

• Mt. St. Joseph Academy: With three losses to start the season, MSJ will need to focus on defensive improvements to limit opponents’ scoring. Their average of 41 PPG indicates that offensive production is consistent but will require more support to compete effectively.
• Mt. Abraham: Having played only one game, Mt. Abraham’s performance remains largely untested. With a chance to rebound from their season opener, their upcoming games offer an opportunity to define their identity and strengthen team cohesion.

What to Watch

The December 27 matchup will be an intriguing test of resilience for both teams. For MSJ, it’s about breaking the streak and earning a road victory, while Mt. Abraham will aim to protect their home court. With both teams averaging close to 40 points per game, a tightly contested battle seems likely.

Conclusion

Although the season is young, both Mt. St. Joseph Academy and Mt. Abraham are poised for growth as they navigate the challenges of high school basketball. These upcoming games will not only provide valuable experience but also lay the groundwork for a competitive season in Vermont’s basketball landscape. Fans can look forward to a spirited matchup when these two teams take the court.