The Richland (WA) varsity basketball team will play a home conference game against Southridge (Kennewick, WA) today at 7:30 p.m.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Washington High School Basketball
Who: Southridge vs Richland
When: Friday, January 24, 2025
Time: 7:30. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here

Game Preview: Southridge vs Richland

As the 2024-2025 high school basketball season unfolds, the Southridge and Richland boys’ basketball teams find themselves at opposite ends of the performance spectrum. Both teams have played a series of intense games, with stark differences in results, momentum, and scoring. Here’s an in-depth look at how these two teams have performed and what the future holds for them.

Southridge Falcons: A Struggle for Consistency

The Southridge Falcons (4-10 overall, 3-6 in district play) have had a challenging season thus far. Their overall win percentage stands at a modest .286, with a district win percentage of .333. Despite some notable individual performances, the Falcons have struggled to gain traction, particularly in their away games, where they hold a 2-7 record. This lack of success on the road has hampered their ability to build momentum and climb the district standings.

In terms of scoring, Southridge averages 55.7 points per game, with a fairly even distribution of scoring across the four quarters. They put up 15.5 points in the first quarter, 12 in the second, 13.8 in the third, and 15.6 in the fourth. However, they have not been able to maintain offensive consistency to secure victories, and their defensive struggles have contributed to their losses. The Falcons have allowed 878 points over the course of the season, averaging 62.7 points allowed per game.

A significant moment in Southridge’s season came on December 20, 2024, when they faced off against district rival Richland. Southridge was thoroughly outplayed, losing 90-45 in a game that saw them fall behind early and struggle to catch up. Despite the tough loss, Southridge continues to fight and hopes to turn things around as the season progresses.

Richland Bombers: Dominance in the District

In stark contrast to Southridge, the Richland Bombers (14-0 overall, 10-0 in district play) have been nothing short of dominant. With a perfect 1.000 win percentage in both overall and district play, Richland has asserted itself as the team to beat. The Bombers have yet to lose a game this season, including an impressive 7-0 record in away games and a flawless 2-0 performance in neutral-site games. Richland’s defense has been as strong as their offense, allowing just 804 points on the season (57.4 points allowed per game).

Richland’s offensive prowess is evident in their team scoring averages, with the Bombers averaging an impressive 84.9 points per game. Their scoring distribution is remarkable, as they average 22.8 points in the first quarter, 21.1 in the second, 21.8 in the third, and 19.5 in the fourth. Their ability to keep up this level of offensive firepower throughout the game has been a major factor in their unbeaten streak.

One of the most notable games in Richland’s season was their 90-45 blowout victory over Southridge on December 20. The Bombers established an early lead and never looked back, outscoring Southridge in every quarter. This game served as a reminder of Richland’s dominance and their potential to make a deep run in the playoffs.

Common Opponents: A Tale of Two Results

Both Southridge and Richland have faced a number of common opponents this season, and the results have been telling. For example, Southridge lost to Davis (61-48), Kennewick (76-49), and Chiawana (67-59), while Richland emerged victorious in these same matchups, including a resounding 97-68 win over Davis, an 82-68 victory over Kennewick, and an 89-71 triumph over Chiawana. Richland’s ability to defeat these teams with ease highlights the stark contrast in the teams’ performance levels.

The common thread of results between these two teams is their consistent inability to beat the same opponents. Southridge has struggled against the stronger teams in their district and beyond, while Richland has dispatched these teams with relative ease. This disparity is a key point as both teams head into the latter part of the season.

Looking Ahead

With the season still ongoing, Southridge has an uphill battle to secure a spot in the playoffs. They need to improve their overall consistency, both offensively and defensively, if they hope to remain competitive in the district. Southridge’s remaining games against teams like Chiawana, Hanford, and Walla Walla will be crucial in determining their postseason fate.

On the other hand, Richland looks poised to continue their undefeated streak, with upcoming games against teams like Pasco, Hanford, and Walla Walla. Their main goal now is to maintain their dominant form and secure a top seed in the district playoffs, where they will be favored to make a deep run.

In summary, while Southridge is enduring a tough season, Richland has proven themselves to be a powerhouse in the district. The rest of the season will be crucial for both teams, as Southridge looks to improve and salvage their season, and Richland aims to continue their perfect record and head into the playoffs with momentum.