The Bishop O’Connell (Arlington, VA) varsity basketball team will be playing a home conference game against Paul VI (Chantilly, VA) today at 6 p.m.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Virginia High School Basketball
Who: Paul VI vs Bishop O’Connell
When: Today, February 8, 2025
Time: 6:00. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here

Game Preview: Paul VI vs Bishop O’Connell

As the Virginia high school basketball season heads into the final stretch, two powerhouse teams are making waves in the local and national rankings—Paul VI and Bishop O’Connell. Both programs boast impressive records and fierce rivalries, creating an electric atmosphere as they prepare for their remaining regular-season matchups. Let’s take a closer look at these two elite teams and their current standings.

Paul VI: A Dominant Force

Paul VI has been a dominant force in Virginia high school basketball during the 2024-2025 season, compiling a 19-5 overall record. With a 8-1 record in region play, the team has been nearly flawless in its home games (8-0) and impressive on the road (5-1). In total, Paul VI has outscored opponents 1,644 to 1,290, reflecting their consistent offensive and defensive strength. Their win percentage of .792 in overall play and .889 in region play underscores their competitiveness and determination.

The team’s top performers have been crucial to their success. Darius Bivins, leading in multiple categories, has been an offensive juggernaut, averaging 11.7 points per game. He also contributes 3.7 assists and 2.4 steals per game, demonstrating his all-around game. The team’s rebounding and defensive efforts have been solid, with Wyatt Norton pulling down 5.5 rebounds per game. Paul VI’s team scoring average stands at an impressive 68.5 points per game, with their strongest quarters coming in the third (19.1 points) and first (17.4 points).

Bishop O’Connell: Consistency and Resilience

Bishop O’Connell has also had a remarkable season, with an 18-6 overall record. Although their region record of 6-3 is slightly behind Paul VI, they have performed well in non-league play, going 9-3. Bishop O’Connell’s offensive numbers have been close to Paul VI’s, averaging 64.4 points per game. The team’s balanced scoring approach is evident, with multiple players contributing to their success. In particular, Darius Bivins’ counterpart, a key player for Bishop O’Connell, has been instrumental in the team’s performance this season.

The team’s defense is strong, led by Liam Koelsch, who is their top shot blocker. Overall, Bishop O’Connell has managed to outscore their opponents by a 1,546 to 1,229 margin, which highlights their efficiency on both ends of the floor. Their best performance came in the fourth quarter, averaging 16.2 points per game, as they consistently finish games strong.

Comparing the Two Teams

When comparing these two programs, both have strengths that could help them clinch victory in their head-to-head encounters. Paul VI leads in several key categories, including points per game (68.5 vs. 64.4), steals per game (9.6 vs. 5.0), and assists per game (11.3 vs. 3.7). However, Bishop O’Connell has been equally formidable in their own right, with a strong 7-1 away record, showing that they can perform under pressure.

Paul VI’s season has been highlighted by significant wins, including an impressive 76-33 victory over St. Mary’s Ryken and an 81-55 win against Archbishop Carroll. Meanwhile, Bishop O’Connell also boasts notable triumphs, such as their narrow win over Sidwell Friends (46-45) and a commanding 72-30 victory over St. Mary’s Ryken. Both teams have had a tough schedule, and while they have encountered similar opponents, Paul VI’s recent victory over Gonzaga (76-58) stands as one of their more convincing wins.

Key Matchups: A Head-to-Head Rivalry

With both teams proving to be top contenders in Virginia, their upcoming matchups will be critical in determining the region’s supremacy. While Paul VI holds a slight edge in terms of overall record, Bishop O’Connell is not far behind. Their common opponents—such as Sidwell Friends, St. Mary’s Ryken, and DeMatha—have provided both teams with stiff challenges, but each squad has managed to showcase their resilience and ability to perform on both sides of the ball.

The rivalry has seen both schools claim victories in close games and high-stakes contests, such as Paul VI’s 63-58 win over St. John’s, and Bishop O’Connell’s narrow 62-57 triumph over St. John’s. However, a true test of their mettle will come in their playoff push, as the region’s elite battle it out for the chance to represent Virginia in the state playoffs.

Looking Ahead: A Promising Playoff Picture

Both teams are gearing up for the postseason, with Paul VI and Bishop O’Connell each playing to clinch higher seeding in the state and national tournaments. Paul VI’s high-powered offense and relentless defense make them a favorite in any matchup, but Bishop O’Connell’s consistency and ability to close out games cannot be overlooked.

As the regular season nears its conclusion, these two Virginia high school basketball juggernauts will be among the teams to watch, with plenty of thrilling action left before playoff time. Fans and players alike are sure to be treated to more intense basketball and fierce competition as the road to the state championship heats up.

The rivalry between Paul VI and Bishop O’Connell, along with their impressive performances throughout the season, will undoubtedly keep everyone on the edge of their seats. Whether it’s the fast-paced play of Paul VI or the methodical approach of Bishop O’Connell, this season has the potential to deliver unforgettable moments.