The Ralston Valley varsity basketball team (Arvada, CO) is set to host a home playoff game against Cherry Creek (Greenwood Village, CO) today at 6:30 PM. This matchup is part of the 2025 CHSAA Boys Basketball State Tournaments – Class 6A.

Ralston Valley vs Cherry Creek Game Info:

What: Colorado High School Basketball
Who: Ralston Valley (CO) vs Cherry Creek (CO)
When: Friday, February 28, 2025
Time: 6:30 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2025 CHSAA Boys Basketball State Tournaments – Class 6A
Live stream: Watch here

Game preview: Ralston Valley vs Cherry Creek

As the 2024-25 basketball season progresses, two Colorado high school teams stand in stark contrast: Cherry Creek and Ralston Valley. With vastly different records and statistical performances, this analysis provides a comprehensive look at their season, strengths, and key players.

Overall Team Performance

Cherry Creek has struggled throughout the season, finishing with a 10-14 record and a 2-6 mark in league play. Their win percentage sits at .417 overall and just .286 in league games. The team has had mixed success at home (4-6) and away (4-7), while performing slightly better in neutral games (2-1).

On the other hand, Ralston Valley has been dominant, boasting an impressive 21-2 overall record with an 11-1 performance in league play. Their winning percentage of .913 is among the highest in the state, and their home-court advantage is evident with a perfect 9-0 record. Even on the road, they have managed a stellar 10-2 record.

Scoring Comparison

A key distinction between the two teams is their scoring ability. Ralston Valley averages 70.8 points per game (PPG), compared to Cherry Creek’s 58.9 PPG. This offensive gap is evident in their scoring breakdown per quarter:

Ralston Valley maintains a steady scoring pace throughout the game, while Cherry Creek’s offensive production remains relatively consistent but lower in comparison.

Statistical Team Comparison

Ralston Valley also holds an edge in key statistical categories:

• Assists Per Game: 19.3 (RV) vs. 11.9 (CC)
• Steals Per Game: 9.9 (RV) vs. 6.9 (CC)
• Blocks Per Game: 5.3 (RV) vs. 4.9 (CC)
• Rebounds Per Game: 30.9 (RV) vs. 31.5 (CC) (Slight edge for Cherry Creek)

Cherry Creek’s rebounding is slightly higher, but Ralston Valley dominates in assists, steals, and blocks, highlighting their strong team play and defensive prowess.

Individual Standouts

Cherry Creek:

• Points Per Game: #22 Jeremiah Hammond (19.9 PPG)
• Rebounds Per Game: #5 Dylan Betts (6.4 RPG)
• Assists Per Game: #1 Montae Johnson (2.5 APG)
• Steals Per Game: #30 Sean Kilkenny (1.2 SPG)
• Blocks Per Game: #5 Dylan Betts (3.4 BPG)

Ralston Valley:

• Points Per Game: #10 Tanner Braketa (18.3 PPG)
• Rebounds Per Game: #4 Zeke Andrews (7.5 RPG)
• Assists Per Game: #10 Tanner Braketa (5.4 APG)
• Steals Per Game: #12 Frank Psaute (2.6 SPG)
• Blocks Per Game: #4 Zeke Andrews (1.7 BPG)

Jeremiah Hammond leads Cherry Creek in scoring, but Ralston Valley showcases a more balanced attack, with Tanner Braketa excelling in both scoring and playmaking.

Common Opponent Comparison

Both teams have faced several common opponents, with Ralston Valley emerging as the stronger team:

Cherry Creek holds a 5-4 record against common opponents, while Ralston Valley is 6-1, further showcasing their superior consistency.

Final Thoughts

Ralston Valley has proven themselves as a powerhouse this season, excelling in scoring, defensive stats, and overall consistency. Cherry Creek, while showing flashes of potential, has struggled to maintain a winning rhythm. If these two teams were to meet, Ralston Valley would be the clear favorite based on statistical trends, but Cherry Creek has a strong scorer in Jeremiah Hammond who could make an impact.

The remainder of the season will determine whether Cherry Creek can turn things around, while Ralston Valley looks poised for a deep playoff run.