The New Hope Academy Regional (Landover Hills, MD) varsity basketball team will face Poolesville (MD) in a neutral-site tournament game on Friday, December 27, 2024, at 5:00 PM.

Here’s what you need Basketball to know:

What: Prep Schools High School Basketball
Who: Poolesville vs New Hope Academy Regional
When: Friday, December 27, 2024
Time: 5:00. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch Here

Team Comparison: Poolesville vs. New Hope Academy Regional (24-25 Season)

As the 2024-2025 basketball season progresses, fans and analysts alike are closely watching the performance of two teams in the Maryland area: Poolesville and New Hope Academy Regional. These two teams have had contrasting seasons so far, with Poolesville struggling to find its footing and New Hope Academy Regional showing a more competitive edge. This article delves into their season statistics, individual player performances, and their overall potential as the season unfolds.

Team Records and Performance Overview

Poolesville has faced a challenging start to the season, posting an overall record of 0-5. Their regional performance is equally underwhelming at 0-1, with struggles on the road (0-3) and limited success at home (0-1). In these five games, they have scored an average of 43 points per game, but their defense has been a major concern, as they have allowed an average of 68 points per game, resulting in a negative point differential of -125. Poolesville’s struggle to maintain momentum in the second half of games is also evident in their scoring averages, with only 6.5 points in the fourth quarter.

On the other hand, New Hope Academy Regional has had a more successful campaign, sitting at a 5-9 overall record. Despite a rough start in regional play (0-2), they have managed to find some balance in their non-league matches, posting a 3-3 record. New Hope Academy’s offense has been more consistent, averaging 55.3 points per game, significantly higher than Poolesville’s 43.0. However, their defense has allowed 820 points this season, with a point differential of -46.

Scoring Averages and Team Stats

The team scoring averages highlight a clear gap between the two teams. Poolesville averages 12.5 points in the first quarter and has a relatively balanced scoring output in the second and third quarters (14.0 and 10.5, respectively). However, their fourth-quarter performance has been disappointing, with an average of just 6.5 points. In contrast, New Hope Academy Regional maintains a stronger offensive output, particularly in the second half. They score an average of 14.8 points in the third quarter and 18.0 in the final quarter, showing their ability to finish strong.

Key Players and Performance

For Poolesville, Lawson Hopkins is the standout player, averaging 16.7 points per game, and contributing significantly in steals with 1.7 per game. He also helps lead the team in assists (2.7) and blocks (1.0). Hopkins has been a consistent presence on both ends of the court, but his contributions have not been enough to carry the team to victory in the early part of the season.

Breylon Lewis has been a key figure for New Hope Academy Regional, leading the team with 5.2 points per game. He also contributes 2.7 assists per game and grabs 4.3 rebounds per game, making him one of the most well-rounded players on the roster. While his numbers don’t jump off the page like Hopkins’, Lewis has been integral to his team’s performances, both as a facilitator and as a key defender.

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced common opponents during the season, including Blair. On February 21, 2025, Poolesville will host Blair, while New Hope Academy will play them at home on December 26, 2024. These matchups will provide valuable insight into how both teams measure up against similar competition and how they might fare against each other in their upcoming contests.

Head-to-Head Breakdown

Although both teams have yet to play against one another this season, the head-to-head matchup is anticipated to be a closely contested affair. Both teams have experienced ups and downs, but New Hope Academy Regional’s higher scoring average and stronger finish in games give them a slight edge. Poolesville will need to focus on improving its offensive output and reducing the gap in their fourth-quarter scoring to stay competitive.

Conclusion

As the season continues, both Poolesville and New Hope Academy Regional have areas they need to improve upon. Poolesville must strengthen its defense and find a way to capitalize on early-game successes, while New Hope Academy Regional needs to build consistency and address their defensive struggles. With a more balanced roster and better overall offensive performance, New Hope Academy looks poised for a more successful campaign, but Poolesville is certainly capable of turning things around with key performances from leaders like Lawson Hopkins. Fans should stay tuned for what promises to be an exciting season ahead for both teams.