The SouthLake Christian Academy (Huntersville, NC) varsity basketball team will host Hickory Grove Christian (Charlotte, NC) for a home conference game on Friday, December 13, 2024, at 7:00 PM.

Here’s what you need to know Basketball:

What: North Carolina High School Basketball
Who: SouthLake Christian Academy vs Hickory Grove Christian
When: Friday, December 13, 2024
Time: 7:00. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch Here

Hickory Grove Christian vs. SouthLake Christian Academy: A Conference Clash

The upcoming basketball game between Hickory Grove Christian and SouthLake Christian Academy promises to be an exciting match as both teams look to rebound from early season struggles. The game will be held on Friday, December 13, at 7:00 PM at SouthLake Christian Academy in Huntersville, NC. Here’s a breakdown of both teams’ performance as they head into this crucial conference matchup.

Team Overview: Hickory Grove Christian

Hickory Grove Christian has had a challenging start to the 2024-2025 season, sitting with a 3-7 overall record. Their performance in conference play has been particularly tough, as they are 0-3 in league games. Despite this, Hickory Grove has managed to put up a decent offensive showing, averaging 52.7 points per game. This scoring output is highlighted by the efforts of Tristan Nelson, who leads the team with 12.2 points per game.

Defensively, Hickory Grove is allowing an average of 62.7 points per game, which reflects some struggles in controlling the game on that end of the floor. Key player Gavin Kiser is contributing across multiple categories, including 12.4 rebounds per game, 1.4 steals, and 1.1 blocks, providing a strong presence in the paint.

Team Overview: SouthLake Christian Academy

SouthLake Christian Academy, on the other hand, has a slightly worse record of 2-8 overall, and they are also winless in conference play with a 0-2 record. Their scoring average is slightly lower than Hickory Grove’s, putting up 51.4 points per game. While they have faced some tough losses, including a recent 61-58 defeat to Gaston Christian, the team is eager to turn things around.

SouthLake Christian’s defense is also underwhelming, as they allow 61.9 points per game. Leading scorer for the team is still to be determined, as no player has emerged as a standout contributor to the same extent as Hickory Grove’s Nelson. However, SouthLake’s team effort is highlighted by their solid all-around players who will need to step up in this home game.

Statistical Breakdown

• Hickory Grove Christian averages 54.3 points per game, showing a stronger offensive output compared to SouthLake Christian, who averages 51.4 points.
• Hickory Grove excels in rebounds with 35.3 per game, while SouthLake has not posted a rebound average for comparison.
• On defense, both teams are struggling to contain opponents, with Hickory Grove allowing 62.7 points per game and SouthLake allowing 61.9.

Key Players to Watch

• Hickory Grove Christian: Gavin Kiser, who leads the team in multiple categories, including rebounds (12.4 RPG), steals (1.4), and blocks (1.1). His presence on both ends of the floor will be crucial.
• SouthLake Christian Academy: The team has no standout scorer, but their collective efforts are key. Players will need to step up to challenge Hickory Grove’s defense.

Head-to-Head and Common Opponents

Both teams have faced a challenging schedule, with common opponents such as Charlotte Christian and Gaston Christian. Hickory Grove Christian is 0-4 against common opponents, while SouthLake Christian Academy holds a slightly better 1-2 record. This suggests that SouthLake may have had marginally better success in similar matchups.

Record Breakdown and Expectations

• Hickory Grove Christian (3-7 overall, 0-3 conference)
• SouthLake Christian Academy (2-8 overall, 0-2 conference)

In terms of home and away games, Hickory Grove has struggled on the road with a 1-3 away record. SouthLake Christian is stronger at home, posting a 2-2 record.

Game Preview

As both teams seek to break out of their early season slump, the match on December 13 will be an important one for both Hickory Grove Christian and SouthLake Christian Academy. With both teams yet to earn a conference victory, this game could serve as a turning point for either side. Hickory Grove will likely have the upper hand due to their higher offensive output and stronger rebounding, but SouthLake Christian, playing at home, will be looking to capitalize on their familiarity with the court and find a way to neutralize Hickory Grove’s strong frontcourt presence.

Conclusion

This matchup is set to be a closely contested game as both teams look to improve their conference standing. With key players like Tristan Nelson and Gavin Kiser for Hickory Grove and a well-balanced effort needed from SouthLake, fans can expect an exciting and competitive game. As both teams aim for their first conference win of the season, expect high intensity and drama as the game unfolds on December 13.