The Serra Catholic varsity basketball team (McKeesport, PA) will host Neighborhood Academy (Pittsburgh, PA) for a home conference game on Friday, January 10, 2025, at 7:00 PM.

Here’s what you need Basketball to know:

What: Pennsylvania High School Basketball
Who: Serra Catholic vs Neighborhood Academy
When: Friday, January 10, 2025
Time: 7:00. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch Here

Neighborhood Academy vs. Serra Catholic: A Battle of Undefeateds

The upcoming basketball showdown between Neighborhood Academy (Pittsburgh, PA) and Serra Catholic (McKeesport, PA) is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated matchups of the season. Both teams come into the game with identical 9-1 overall records, boasting dominant performances in their respective leagues and strong non-league victories. As the two teams prepare for their conference battles, we take a deeper dive into their performances, players to watch, and what to expect in the upcoming clashes.

Team Overview

Both teams have been impressive so far this season, each remaining undefeated within their conferences.

Neighborhood Academy leads its conference with a perfect 1-0 record, while Serra Catholic is also undefeated in conference play with a 2-0 record. These strong starts have allowed both teams to gain early momentum heading into the heart of their schedules.

• Neighborhood Academy boasts a 0.900 win percentage with a +268 point differential, having scored 694 points and allowed 426 points. Their offensive efficiency, averaging 69.4 points per game, is highlighted by their consistent performance across all four quarters.
• Serra Catholic also holds a 0.900 win percentage, with a similarly strong +214 point differential, scoring 705 points and allowing 491 points. The Eagles have been particularly impressive in their away games, sporting a 7-0 record when playing outside their home court.

Game Preview

The highly anticipated first matchup of these two rivals will take place on Friday, January 10, at Serra Catholic, with tip-off scheduled for 7:00 PM. Fans can look forward to a fast-paced game between these two high-scoring teams. The game will be a true test of each squad’s offense and defense, as they prepare for their next contest in February, when Serra Catholic will travel to Neighborhood Academy on Monday, February 3 at 6:00 PM.

Key Players to Watch

For Neighborhood Academy, the standout player has been Owen Dumbroski, leading the team in multiple categories. He has been averaging 21.5 points per game, 3.6 assists, and a team-high 4.2 steals per game. His all-around contributions are key to the team’s offensive and defensive success. Another player to keep an eye on is Tyler Sapida, who has been a force on the boards with 7.6 rebounds per game.

On the other side, Serra Catholic has been led by Tyler Sapida (yes, the same name!) in rebounding and Owen Dumbroski for scoring. Both teams rely heavily on their individual performances, but it is their team chemistry and defensive plays that will ultimately decide the outcome.

Team Comparison: Stats Breakdown

• Points Per Game:
  • Neighborhood Academy: 69.4
  • Serra Catholic: 70.5
• Rebounds Per Game:
  • Neighborhood Academy: 30.3
  • Serra Catholic: 30.3
• Assists Per Game:
  • Neighborhood Academy: 14.7
  • Serra Catholic: 14.7
• Steals Per Game:
  • Neighborhood Academy: 14.5
  • Serra Catholic: 14.5
• Blocks Per Game:
  • Neighborhood Academy: 2.2
  • Serra Catholic: 2.2

Despite similar numbers across the board, the game will come down to which team can impose its style of play. Neighborhood Academy has been particularly dominant at home with a perfect 5-0 record, while Serra Catholic has been outstanding on the road, boasting a 7-0 away record. Expect a fast-paced and fiercely competitive game as both teams attempt to maintain their undefeated records.

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced similar challenges this season, having both played and defeated Eden Christian Academy, Clairton, Monessen, and McKeesport with dominant victories. In these matchups, both teams showcased their strengths, outscoring their opponents in every single instance.

Upcoming Games to Watch

After their January 10th showdown, the teams will have the following key matchups to look forward to:

• January 13, 2025: Neighborhood Academy vs. St. Joseph
• January 27, 2025: Neighborhood Academy vs. Environmental Charter
• February 6, 2025: Neighborhood Academy vs. St. Joseph
• January 14, 2025: Serra Catholic vs. Environmental Charter
• January 31, 2025: Serra Catholic vs. St. Joseph
• February 7, 2025: Serra Catholic vs. Environmental Charter

Conclusion

This is shaping up to be a thrilling season for both Neighborhood Academy and Serra Catholic, with each team setting its sights on conference dominance. Their meeting on January 10 will undoubtedly be a pivotal point in both teams’ campaigns, and with both teams scoring in the 70s and boasting high defensive stats, this matchup promises to be an exciting and intense battle.

As these two undefeated teams collide, basketball fans can expect to see a competitive, fast-paced game full of highlight-reel plays and passionate performances. Don’t miss out on this upcoming clash