The Champlain Valley Union varsity basketball team from Hinesburg, VT, will host a home conference game against Rice Memorial from South Burlington, VT, on Friday, January 10, at 7:00 PM.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Vermont High School Basketball
Who: Rice Memorial vs Champlain Valley Union
When: Friday, January 10, 2025
Time: 7:00. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here

Game Preview: Rice Memorial vs Champlain Valley Union

As the 2024-25 Vermont high school basketball season heats up, fans are eagerly anticipating the showdown between two prominent teams: Rice Memorial and Champlain Valley Union (CVU). With impressive records and distinct playing styles, the stage is set for a thrilling matchup on January 10, 2025, at CVU’s home court. Let’s dive into the details to see how these teams stack up against each other.

Team Rankings and Records

Rice Memorial

• Division Ranking: 4
• Overall Record: 5-1
• District Record: 4-0
• Home Record: 2-1
• Away Record: 2-0
• Neutral Site Record: 1-0
• Win Percentage: 83.3%
• District Win Percentage: 100%
• Points For (PF): 451
• Points Against (PA): 381

Rice Memorial’s consistency shines through their stellar district performance. Boasting an undefeated district record and a potent offense averaging 75.2 points per game, the team is proving to be a dominant force.

Champlain Valley Union (CVU)

• Division Ranking: 15
• Overall Record: 4-3
• District Record: 2-2
• Home Record: 2-2
• Away Record: 2-1
• Win Percentage: 57.1%
• District Win Percentage: 50%
• Points For (PF): 329
• Points Against (PA): 294

While CVU has had a mixed start to the season, their balanced scoring and defensive grit keep them competitive. Averaging 47 points per game, they’ll need to amplify their offensive output to contend with Rice Memorial’s high-scoring attack.

Head-to-Head Preview

The two teams will meet for the first time this season on January 10 at CVU’s home court, followed by a rematch on February 11 at Rice Memorial. With both teams eager to claim victory, these games promise to be pivotal in shaping their seasons.

Performance Against Common Opponents

Analyzing their games against shared opponents offers insight into their relative strengths:

• Rice Memorial: 5-0
• CVU: 3-3

Notable Results:

• Vs. Burr & Burton: Rice Memorial dominated with a decisive 77-45 win, while CVU has yet to face them.
• Vs. Mt. Mansfield: Rice Memorial emerged victorious (68-56), while CVU suffered a narrow loss (49-48).
• Vs. Essex: Both teams defeated Essex convincingly, with Rice Memorial achieving two identical 81-70 victories and CVU winning 60-36.

Rice Memorial’s unblemished record against common opponents highlights their superior consistency and execution.

Key Factors to Watch

Offensive Firepower:

Rice Memorial’s prolific scoring, led by a dynamic offense averaging 75.2 points per game, is their greatest strength. CVU will need to tighten their defense and find ways to counter this relentless attack.

Defensive Stamina:

CVU’s defense has kept them in contention, holding opponents to an average of 47 points per game. Limiting Rice Memorial’s opportunities will be crucial if they hope to stay competitive.

Home Court Advantage:

The January 10 game at CVU’s home court could provide a morale boost for the underdog team. However, Rice Memorial’s solid away record (2-0) suggests they’re unfazed by the challenges of playing on the road.

Looking Ahead

With Rice Memorial holding the upper hand in rankings, record, and scoring ability, they enter the matchup as clear favorites. However, CVU has shown flashes of resilience and the potential to disrupt expectations. Fans can expect a spirited contest as both teams vie for supremacy in Vermont’s competitive basketball landscape.

Mark your calendars for this exciting clash, and stay tuned as the season unfolds, with these two teams undoubtedly continuing to make headlines.