The Paola (KS) varsity basketball team will host a conference game against Ottawa (KS) on Friday, January 17, at 7:30 p.m.
Paola vs Ottawa Game Info:
What: Kansas High School Basketball
Who: Paola (KS) vs Ottawa (KS)
When: Friday, January 17, 2025
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here
Game preview: Paola vs Ottawa
As we near the midpoint of the 2024-25 high school basketball season, two Kansas varsity basketball teams, Ottawa and Paola, are set to clash once again. Their records and performances thus far paint a stark contrast, promising a fascinating rematch.
Rankings and Records
Ottawa has been a powerhouse this season, boasting an unblemished 6-0 overall record and dominating their district with a perfect 5-0 district record. Their stellar performance is reflected in a 1.000 winning percentage and an impressive scoring differential, having scored 386 points while allowing only 242.
In contrast, Paola has struggled to find consistency, with a 2-3-1 overall record and no wins in district play (0-2-1). Their performance has resulted in a .417 winning percentage, with 238 points scored and 285 points conceded.
Team Scoring Averages
Ottawa has demonstrated offensive efficiency, averaging 64.3 points per game, while Paola averages 39.7 points per game. A breakdown of Paola’s scoring shows a stronger performance in the first and fourth quarters, with averages of 8.0 and 8.5 points, respectively. However, Ottawa’s balanced scoring attack consistently overwhelms opponents across all four quarters.
Head-to-Head
The two teams last faced each other on December 17, 2024, when Ottawa decisively defeated Paola 65-33 in a conference game. The game underscored Ottawa’s superior form and highlighted the challenges Paola faces in competing against top-tier teams.
Common Opponents
Examining their performances against common opponents further illustrates the disparity between the two teams. Ottawa is 3-0 against mutual foes, including decisive victories against Bonner Springs (63-52), Tonganoxie (58-31), and Baldwin (61-52). Meanwhile, Paola has struggled, recording a 0-1-1 record in comparable matchups, with a notable 75-53 loss to Baldwin and a 0-0 tie against Tonganoxie.
Record Breakdown
Ottawa’s dominance is evident in both home and away games, with a 3-0 record in each. They are undefeated in league, non-league, and in-state matchups. Paola, on the other hand, has been more competitive at home (2-1) but remains winless in away (0-2-1) and district (0-2-1) games.
Preview of the Next Matchup
The upcoming rematch on Friday, January 17, will be hosted by Paola, giving them a chance to leverage home-court advantage. However, given Ottawa’s flawless record and superior scoring ability, Paola will need to address both offensive and defensive gaps to pull off an upset.
Keys to Victory
- For Ottawa: Continue their balanced scoring and capitalize on their defensive strengths. Staying focused and disciplined will ensure their unbeaten streak remains intact.
- For Paola: Improve offensive efficiency, especially in the middle quarters, and tighten defensive efforts to slow down Ottawa’s high-scoring offense. Home-court energy could play a pivotal role.
Conclusion
While Ottawa enters as the clear favorite, basketball often delivers surprises. Paola has the opportunity to learn from their past experiences and turn the tide. Fans can look forward to an exciting game that tests both teams’ resolve and strategy as the season heats up.
