The Albemarle varsity basketball team (Charlottesville, VA) will host a home conference game against Orange County (Orange, VA) on Friday, January 31, at 7:30 PM.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Virginia High School Basketball
Who: Orange County vs Albemarle
When: Friday, January 31, 2025
Time: 7:30. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here
Game Preview: Orange County vs Albemarle
As the Virginia high school basketball season progresses, two teams have stood out in their respective conference: Albemarle and Orange County. With both teams displaying competitive performances, their upcoming matchup is highly anticipated by fans and analysts alike.
Team Performance Overview
Orange County Hornets (10-8, 5-5 Region Record)
The Orange County Hornets have maintained a solid season with a 10-8 overall record and a .556 win percentage. Their regional performance stands at an even 5-5, demonstrating consistency but also showing room for improvement. With a home record of 6-4 and an away record of 3-4, the Hornets have proven to be more dominant in their own gym. They have scored a total of 990 points while allowing 895, maintaining a respectable scoring margin.
Albemarle Patriots (15-3, 9-1 Region Record)
The Albemarle Patriots have been a dominant force this season with a stellar 15-3 overall record and an impressive .833 win percentage. They hold a 9-1 record in regional play, making them a top contender. Albemarle has performed well both at home (8-2) and on the road (7-1), demonstrating versatility and resilience. Their offensive power is evident with a total of 1,208 points scored while only allowing 848.
Head-to-Head Matchup
In their last meeting on December 17th, Albemarle secured a convincing 73-50 victory over Orange County. The Patriots’ strong offensive execution and defensive pressure proved too much for the Hornets to handle. The upcoming rematch on January 31st at Albemarle’s home court will be an opportunity for Orange County to seek redemption.
Scoring Averages
- Orange County: 55.0 points per game
- Albemarle: 67.1 points per game
Albemarle holds a clear edge in scoring, averaging over 12 points more per game than Orange County. If the Hornets want to turn the tables, they will need to find a way to contain Albemarle’s high-powered offense.
Common Opponent Analysis
Both teams have faced several common opponents throughout the season, with Albemarle posting a superior record in those matchups:
- Orange County: 5-4 against common opponents
- Albemarle: 8-1 against common opponents
Notably, both teams lost to Western Albemarle, but Orange County struggled significantly in their 73-46 defeat, while Albemarle fell in a closer 59-57 contest. Additionally, Albemarle had a dominant 93-42 victory over Goochland, whereas Orange County split their games with them, winning 63-23 but losing 43-41.
Key Factors for the Upcoming Game
- Offensive Execution: Orange County must improve their scoring efficiency and take advantage of fast-break opportunities to keep up with Albemarle’s high-scoring offense.
- Defensive Adjustments: The Hornets need to tighten their defense and focus on limiting Albemarle’s top scorers to avoid another high-scoring affair.
- Home Court Advantage: Albemarle will have the benefit of playing on their home court, where they have only lost twice this season.
- Momentum: With Albemarle coming off a series of strong performances, Orange County must bring high energy and confidence to the matchup.
Final Thoughts
Albemarle enters the game as the clear favorite based on their record, scoring ability, and previous victory over Orange County. However, basketball is unpredictable, and Orange County has an opportunity to pull off an upset if they execute their game plan effectively. Fans can expect an exciting contest when these two teams face off on January 31st.
