The Star Valley (Afton, WY) varsity basketball team will play a home conference game against Natrona County (Casper, WY) today at 7:30 PM.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Wyoming High School Basketball
Who: Natrona County vs Star Valley
When: Friday, January 17, 2025
Time: 7:30. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here

Game Preview: Natrona County vs Star Valley

As the winter basketball season heats up, one exciting matchup to look out for is the ongoing rivalry between Natrona County High School (Casper, WY) and Star Valley High School (Afton, WY). Both teams are working to improve their standings in Wyoming’s competitive basketball scene, with each squad facing unique challenges and promising moments this season. The next encounter will take place on January 18, 2025, at Star Valley.

Team Records and Performance

Natrona County (2024-2025):

• Record: 2-6 overall
• Home: 0-4
• Away: 1-1
• Neutral: 1-1
• Points Scored (PF): 403
• Points Allowed (PA): 438
• Win Percentage: 25%

Natrona County’s season has been a mix of highs and lows, with the team struggling to find consistency. Their overall record stands at 2-6, with their only victories coming from away and neutral games. Despite scoring 50.4 points per game, they’ve had difficulties in some key areas, which is reflected in their 25% win rate. The team will need to find a way to improve their performance at home if they are to make a push for the playoffs.

Star Valley (2024-2025):

• Record: 2-8 overall
• Home: 1-1
• Away: 0-2
• Neutral: 1-5
• Points Scored (PF): 477
• Points Allowed (PA): 537
• Win Percentage: 20%

Star Valley has also faced challenges this season, with a 2-8 record. Their performance has been less than ideal on the road, having secured just one win in six away games. Despite scoring an average of 47.7 points per game, the team’s defensive struggles have contributed to their negative record. Star Valley will be looking to build on the few victories they’ve had, especially with upcoming home games that may offer them a chance to reverse their fortunes.

Team Scoring Averages

• Natrona County:
  • Q1: 20.5
  • Q2: 13.5
  • Q3: 12.0
  • Q4: 12.5
  • Total: 50.4 points per game
• Star Valley:
  • Q1: 11.0
  • Q2: 7.0
  • Q3: 13.5
  • Q4: 7.5
  • Total: 47.7 points per game

Natrona County has been notably strong in the first quarter, averaging over 20 points in the opening period. However, their scoring tends to slow down in the second half, which has been a critical factor in some of their losses. On the other hand, Star Valley has struggled in the first half but shows resilience in the third quarter. However, their inability to maintain consistency in the final quarter has hurt their chances of closing out games.

Head-to-Head and Common Opponents

Both teams have faced common opponents this season, and their performance against these teams could provide insight into how they might match up in their head-to-head encounters.

• Natrona County: The team has had a mixed record against shared opponents, with a 1-1 mark against teams like Central, East, and Kelly Walsh.
• Star Valley: Star Valley has faced a tougher schedule against common opponents, with a 1-2 record in their head-to-head matchups against teams like Central, East, and Riverton.

In their upcoming head-to-head clash, Natrona County will be looking to capitalize on their early-game strengths, while Star Valley will need to improve their second-half performances to have a chance at victory.

What to Expect in the Upcoming Game

The January 18, 2025 matchup between Natrona County and Star Valley is sure to be an exciting one. Natrona County has an opportunity to gain momentum on the road, while Star Valley will aim to secure a much-needed win in front of their home crowd. Both teams have room for improvement, and this game could serve as a critical turning point in their seasons.

Looking further ahead, the teams will face each other again on February 15, 2025, at Natrona County, adding another layer of excitement to this already competitive rivalry.

Conclusion

With both teams in need of a boost to improve their records and standings, the Natrona County vs. Star Valley game promises to be an exciting contest full of drama. Fans of Wyoming high school basketball should be prepared for a thrilling matchup as these two teams fight for a key victory in the 2024-2025 season.