As the 2024-2025 Wisconsin high school basketball season continues to unfold, two teams from the area, Peshtigo and Oconto Falls, are proving to be formidable contenders in their respective conferences. With impressive early-season records and standout performances from their players, both teams are setting the stage for an exciting remainder of the season.

Peshtigo Basketball

Peshtigo, with a 4-1 overall record, has been a dominant force early in the season. The team’s performance is marked by their strong offensive capabilities, averaging 66.2 points per game. Despite their strong offense, they have faced a few close matchups, notably their 69-65 victory over Marinette on December 3, 2024, but the team’s resilience has shown through.

The Peshtigo squad is led by standout players like Jameson Beaman, who averages 17.8 points per game, and Jj Pytleski, who leads the team with 6.5 rebounds per game. Additionally, Brady Bursa has been an all-around contributor, with team-leading statistics in assists (2.3 per game), steals (2.3 per game), and blocks (1.0 per game).

Peshtigo’s team chemistry and depth have also been key to their success. Their ability to adapt and play effectively both at home and on the road has been noticeable. With a 3-0 record at home and 1-1 on the road, they are showing their strength on both fronts. Their only loss came against conference rival Oconto Falls, but the team will likely be looking forward to a rematch later in the season.

Oconto Falls Basketball

Oconto Falls, with a 3-1 record, has similarly showcased impressive play early in the season. The team has demonstrated solid offensive execution, averaging 57.3 points per game. The Oconto Falls squad, though slightly lower in scoring than Peshtigo, has been known for their tough defense and ability to close out games.

The team is led by several key players, including their top scorer, who averages 5.4 points per game, and players like Jj Pytleski (6.5 rebounds per game) who helps balance their offense and defense. Brady Bursa has emerged as the key playmaker, contributing in various facets of the game. He leads the team in assists (1.1 per game) and steals (1.0 per game), while also providing valuable blocks (0.3 per game).

Like Peshtigo, Oconto Falls has been strong on the road, with a perfect 2-0 record away from home. They’ll be looking to build on this success as they prepare for matchups against teams like Marinette and Peshtigo later in the season.

Head-to-Head and Common Opponents

The early-season matchups between these teams have already created some intriguing storylines. While Peshtigo has emerged victorious in both of their common matchups so far — beating Coleman 70-50 on November 29, 2024, and Marinette 69-65 — Oconto Falls has a chance to prove themselves in the upcoming games. They will face Peshtigo again on January 14, 2025, which promises to be an exciting matchup, as both teams will look to build on their early successes.

In their games against common opponents, Peshtigo has gone 2-0, while Oconto Falls remains undefeated against their shared rivals with a 0-0 record. These games are likely to be pivotal in determining how the rest of the season will play out.

Looking Ahead

As the season progresses, both Peshtigo and Oconto Falls will be looking to assert themselves in their respective conferences. With the talent and depth of both squads, basketball fans in Wisconsin can expect a thrilling race for the top spots in the standings. The rivalry between Peshtigo and Oconto Falls is expected to continue to heat up, especially with the upcoming games where both teams will aim to improve upon their impressive starts.

For now, these two teams remain among the top contenders in their conferences, with their head-to-head matchups and ability to outperform common opponents setting the stage for an exciting finish to the season. As we approach the second half of the 2024-2025 high school basketball season, expect plenty more action from these talented teams in what is shaping up to be an unforgettable campaign.