The Richland (WA) varsity basketball team will play a home conference game against Pasco (WA) on Friday, January 31, at 7:30 p.m.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Washington High School Basketball
Who: Pasco vs Richland
When: Friday, January 31, 2025
Time: 7:30. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here
Game Preview: Pasco vs Richland
The Washington High School basketball season has been a dramatic showcase of talent, with Pasco and Richland each making headlines for different reasons. The Pasco Bulldogs and the Richland Bombers are currently two teams on opposite ends of the spectrum, and their recent performances have highlighted just how contrasting their seasons have been.
Pasco’s Struggles
Pasco’s basketball team has faced a challenging season so far, with a record of 2-15 overall and 1-11 in their district. The Bulldogs have struggled both at home (1-6) and away (1-9), posting a win percentage of just .118 and a district win percentage of .083. Their offensive and defensive struggles are evident in their statistics, with the team scoring an average of just 47.5 points per game, while allowing opponents to score 1,267 points, an average of 84.5 points per game against them.
Their most recent matchup against Richland, held on January 3, 2025, ended in a lopsided loss. Pasco was dominated in every quarter, losing by a final score of 87-42. The Bulldogs’ performance has often been marked by inconsistencies, with some of their closest games coming against teams they faced on the road. Despite the tough season, the team’s determination is palpable, and they will continue to battle through their remaining schedule.
Richland’s Dominance
On the other hand, Richland’s basketball team has been nearly unstoppable this season. With a flawless 15-0 overall record and a perfect 11-0 district record, the Bombers are firmly at the top of their game. They have been exceptional both at home (6-0) and on the road (7-0), showcasing a dominant offensive presence, averaging 85.2 points per game while allowing just 855 points all season.
The Bombers’ most recent matchup against Pasco was a clear demonstration of their offensive firepower, as they cruised to a 87-42 victory. Richland has been particularly impressive in their performances against common opponents. With wins over teams like Hermiston, Kamiakin, Kennewick, and Chiawana, they have shown a consistent ability to dominate at both ends of the court. Their balanced offensive attack has been a key factor in their undefeated run, with the team posting strong scoring averages in each quarter of their games, including an explosive 33-point third quarter against Pasco.
Head-to-Head Matchups
The head-to-head matchup between Pasco and Richland in January 2025 was a clear example of the disparity between the two teams. Richland’s depth and talent overwhelmed Pasco, as they built an early lead and never looked back. Pasco, on the other hand, was left trying to keep pace but ultimately fell short due to struggles on both offense and defense.
While Pasco has had difficulty finding success in the league, Richland continues to maintain their perfect record, dominating nearly every game they’ve played. However, both teams still have several games left to play in the season, and Pasco will be looking to upset their remaining opponents and finish strong.
Common Opponents: A Comparison
Looking at their performances against common opponents provides further insight into how these two teams stack up. Pasco has struggled against teams like Hermiston, Kamiakin, and Kennewick, suffering losses by significant margins. Meanwhile, Richland has not only defeated these same teams but often in commanding fashion, with lopsided victories like a 100-54 win over Hermiston and an 89-71 victory over Chiawana.
The contrasting results in these matchups highlight the vast difference in performance and talent between the two teams. Pasco’s struggles are reflected in their win-loss record against these teams, while Richland’s dominance over similar competition further cements their place as one of the top teams in the league.
What’s Next for Both Teams?
As the season progresses, Pasco will look to finish the year strong, with upcoming games against Chiawana, Hanford, and Walla Walla. These games will serve as an opportunity for the Bulldogs to gain some much-needed momentum and perhaps close out the season with a few more wins.
For Richland, the path to an undefeated season is still clear, with key matchups against Chiawana, Hanford, and Walla Walla remaining on their schedule. The Bombers are looking to continue their dominant run and secure a top seed in the playoffs as they prepare for the postseason.
Conclusion
The 2024-2025 Washington High School basketball season has been one of stark contrasts for Pasco and Richland. While Pasco faces an uphill battle, Richland is on a historic run of dominance. As both teams look to wrap up their respective seasons, the rivalry between the two will surely continue to excite fans and provide a window into the competitive spirit that defines high school basketball in Washington.
