The Smoky Hill varsity basketball team from Aurora, CO, will host a home non-conference game against Ralston Valley from Arvada, CO, today at 7:00 PM at Smoky Hill.

Ralston Valley vs Smoky Hill High School Basketball Game Info:

What: Colorado High School Basketball
Who: Ralston Valley vs Smoky Hill
When: Friday, January 10, 2025
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Live stream: Watch here

Game Preview: Ralston Valley vs Smoky Hill

Basketball fans are in for an electrifying evening as Smoky Hill (6-6) welcomes the undefeated Ralston Valley (8-0) to Aurora, CO, for a non-conference clash today at 7:00 PM. With contrasting records and team dynamics, this game has all the makings of an intense battle.

Rankings and Records

Ralston Valley comes into the game as one of the top teams in Colorado, holding the #1 rank both statewide and in their class. Their flawless 8-0 record reflects dominance across all venues: 2-0 at home, 4-0 on the road, and 2-0 in neutral settings. Meanwhile, Smoky Hill has had a rollercoaster season, sitting at a 6-6 overall record and ranked 26th in Colorado and 14th in their class. While they have struggled at home (1-4), their strong 4-1 road record shows their resilience away from familiar territory.

Scoring Averages

This matchup features two high-scoring teams. Ralston Valley averages 67.4 points per game, slightly edging out Smoky Hill’s 66.8. Ralston Valley consistently performs across all four quarters, while Smoky Hill has demonstrated explosive fourth-quarter efforts, averaging 21.8 points—a potential key to their success in close games.

Statistical Comparisons

While the teams are closely matched in points per game, Ralston Valley holds an edge in rebounds (29.5 vs. 24.3), blocks (6.8 vs. 3.3), and steals (9.1 vs. 8.3). However, Smoky Hill leads slightly in assists per game (15.5 vs. 15.0), showcasing their ability to distribute the ball effectively.

Key Players to Watch

Ralston Valley:

• Tanner Braketa (#10): The team’s standout scorer, averaging 19.9 points per game and 4.3 assists per game.
• Zeke Andrews (#4): A defensive force with 7.6 rebounds and 2.1 blocks per game.
• Frank Psaute (#12): Leading the team in steals with 2.4 per game.

Smoky Hill:

• Lorenzo Contreras (#2): A dynamic player averaging 18.6 points and 5.1 assists per game.
• Carter Basquez (#0): Dominates the boards with 7.8 rebounds and contributes 2.5 steals per game.

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced similar opposition with varying results. Smoky Hill’s 2-1 record against shared opponents shows their capability to compete, while Ralston Valley’s 2-0 record underscores their consistency. Notable wins include Ralston Valley’s dominant performance over Legend (73-53) and Smoky Hill’s victory over the same opponent in a closer contest (78-74).

Final Thoughts

Ralston Valley will aim to maintain their undefeated streak through balanced scoring and strong defense, while Smoky Hill looks to leverage their fourth-quarter explosiveness and playmaking abilities. As Smoky Hill attempts to hand Ralston Valley their first loss, this game is poised to be a thrilling showdown that fans won’t want to miss.

Tip-off is at 7:00 PM at Smoky Hill High School in Aurora, CO.