The Utah high school basketball season is heating up, and two teams, Orem High School and Brighton High School, are making waves with their early-season performances. Here’s a detailed breakdown of their records, standout stats, and team dynamics for the 2024-25 season.

Team Records and Rankings

• Orem Tigers have emerged as the top basketball program in Utah, holding the No. 1 ranking in the state and impressively sitting 33rd nationally. With a dominant 8-1 overall record and a stellar .889 win percentage, Orem has proven itself as the team to beat this season.
• Brighton Bengals, while not as dominant, have shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in competitive matchups. Brighton holds a 4-3 overall record with a respectable .571 win percentage, ranking 11th in Utah Class and 52nd overall statewide.

Record Breakdown

Orem’s success on both home and neutral courts demonstrates their consistency and ability to adapt under pressure. Brighton, however, remains a solid competitor, especially when playing on the road, where they are undefeated at 2-0.

Scoring Averages by Quarter

Both teams showcase balanced offensive performances, with scoring consistency across quarters.

Brighton has shown a strong third-quarter scoring surge, averaging 19.7 points, which allows them to stay competitive in tight games. Meanwhile, Orem’s consistent scoring throughout all four quarters, especially in the fourth with 15.5 points, highlights their ability to close out games.

Team Leaders and Key Performers

Orem’s standout player, Josh Mawhinney (#1), has been the driving force behind their success. His impressive stat line includes:

• 17.4 points per game
• 10.0 rebounds per game
• 3.4 assists per game

Mawhinney’s double-double average makes him a dominant presence on the court and a key figure for Orem’s championship aspirations.

For Brighton, while team stats are not as player-focused, the Bengals rely on collective contributions, showcasing their depth and team-oriented play style.

Stat Comparison

Orem maintains an edge in statistical categories, particularly in rebounds and assists, emphasizing their strength in controlling possessions and ball movement.

Common Opponents

Brighton has already faced Wasatch, securing a convincing 75-63 win. Orem has yet to play Wasatch but will face them twice later in the season. This common opponent matchup will serve as a key benchmark to compare these two teams’ progress and performance.

Outlook for the Season

Orem looks poised to continue their dominance as one of the best teams in the state and a rising force on the national stage. With standout performances from players like Josh Mawhinney, the Tigers have a clear path to success. Brighton, while facing challenges, has proven they can win tough games, especially on the road. Their ability to dominate the third quarter will keep them competitive in critical matchups.

Basketball fans in Utah will want to keep an eye on both programs as they aim for strong finishes in the 2024-25 season. With potential matchups looming, a clash between Orem and Brighton could be one of the season’s most exciting showdowns.

Stay tuned for more updates and highlights as the Utah high school basketball season progresses!