The Walla Walla (WA) varsity basketball team will play a home conference game against Richland (WA) on Friday, January 10, at 7:30 PM.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Washington High School Basketball
Who: Richland vs Walla Walla
When: Friday, January 10, 2025
Time: 7:30. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here

Game Preview: Richland vs Walla Walla

As the 2024-2025 basketball season heats up, two powerhouse teams in Washington state, Richland and Walla Walla, are set to face off in an exciting rivalry game on Friday, January 10, at 7:30 p.m. The game will take place at Walla Walla High School, and fans are eagerly anticipating the action.

Team Overview

Richland High School, currently boasting a perfect 9-0 record, has dominated both in district play and across the state. The team has been virtually unstoppable this season, holding a 6-0 district record and winning all of their home and away games. The Richland boys’ basketball squad has been averaging an impressive 88.3 points per game, with their scoring spread consistently throughout all four quarters. In particular, Richland excels in the first and second quarters, where they average 23.4 and 23.3 points, respectively.

On the other hand, Walla Walla High School, with a 5-5 record overall, has faced some challenges. The team has a 2-4 district record, and their performance at home has been stronger than on the road. They are averaging 56.7 points per game, with their scoring gradually increasing throughout the game. Walla Walla’s offense has had moments of brilliance, but their opponents’ offense, like Richland’s, has often been too much to overcome.

Head-to-Head

This Friday’s game marks the first of two meetings between these two teams this season. The Richland varsity basketball team is coming off of dominant victories, including an 81-47 win over Kamiakin and an 82-68 win against Kennewick. Their explosive offense will be a key factor as they take on Walla Walla, who enters the game after a tough 64-52 loss to Hermiston and a recent victory over Kennewick.

Looking ahead, the return game on February 8, 2025, will see Walla Walla travel to Richland. Richland, undefeated so far, will look to maintain their perfect record as the competition tightens up.

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced similar opponents, and the records reflect the difference in overall performance. Richland has won all six of their matchups with common opponents, including impressive victories over teams like Kamiakin, Kennewick, and Southridge. Walla Walla, however, has gone 2-4 against those same teams, struggling in key games against top opponents like Chiawana and Hermiston.

Key common opponent matchups include:

• Richland vs. Kamiakin (12/13/24): A 81-47 victory for Richland
• Walla Walla vs. Kamiakin (1/3/25): A tough 55-52 loss for Walla Walla
• Richland vs. Kennewick (12/14/24): A solid 82-68 win for Richland
• Walla Walla vs. Kennewick (1/4/25): A 72-60 victory for Walla Walla

What to Expect

Richland’s offense has been potent all season, averaging a staggering 88.3 points per game. With their high-powered attack, they’ll look to put pressure on Walla Walla early. Walla Walla will need to focus on defense and efficient scoring to keep the game close. They’ll have to find ways to slow down Richland’s fast pace and limit turnovers if they are to stay competitive.

Key Players

• Richland: Expect star performances from their leading scorers, who have contributed significantly to their 9-0 record. Look for standout players who can dominate both ends of the court.
• Walla Walla: Walla Walla’s key players will need to step up and match the intensity of their opponents. Solid performances on both offense and defense will be critical for their success.

Final Thoughts

Richland enters as the clear favorite in this matchup, but Walla Walla has the talent and potential to pull off an upset, especially if they play their best basketball. With both teams’ contrasting styles and records, this game promises to be an exciting contest filled with high energy and intense competition.

Fans should mark their calendars and get ready for a thrilling game on January 10. Will Richland continue their perfect season, or will Walla Walla prove they can compete at the highest level? The action kicks off at 7:30 p.m. at Walla Walla High School—don’t miss it!