The Leadership Academy (Kernersville, NC) varsity basketball team will host Piedmont Classical (Browns Summit, NC) for a home conference game on Friday, December 13, at 7:30 p.m.

Here’s what you need to know Basketball:

What: North Carolina High School Basketball
Who: The Leadership Academy vs Piedmont Classical
When: Friday, December 13, 2024
Time: 7:30. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch Here

Upcoming Showdown: Piedmont Classical vs. Leadership Academy

The 2024-2025 basketball season has seen its fair share of excitement, but one of the most highly anticipated matchups is just around the corner: Piedmont Classical (Browns Summit, NC) will face off against Leadership Academy (Kernersville, NC) in a conference game on Friday, December 13, at 7:30 PM. This game promises to showcase the unique strengths of both teams as they strive to dominate the court.

Piedmont Classical (2-4) vs. Leadership Academy (5-0)

Piedmont Classical enters this game with a record of 2-4 overall, having faced a series of challenging matchups. Their conference performance has been relatively balanced with a 1-1 record, with an impressive 1-1 home record, but they’ve struggled slightly away with a 0-1 mark. However, their most recent performance, a commanding 77-35 win over Bethany Community on December 10, 2024, showed their potential and readiness to build on that momentum.

On the other hand, Leadership Academy remains undefeated with a perfect 5-0 record, including a flawless 1-0 conference standing. Their recent performances, such as an 80-49 victory over Cornerstone Charter on December 10, 2024, highlight their consistency and strong team chemistry. At home, they have been dominant, with a 3-0 record, and their away record stands at 2-0, demonstrating their ability to perform in all environments.

Offensive Power

Looking at the team statistics, Leadership Academy leads with a stronger offensive presence, averaging 66.6 points per game compared to Piedmont Classical’s 58.6. Leadership Academy has been particularly dominant in the second and third quarters, putting up 18.0 and 24.0 points per game respectively. Piedmont Classical, while capable of a strong final push (averaging 18 points in the fourth quarter), will need to match Leadership Academy’s consistent offensive output throughout the entire game to stay competitive.

Key Players to Watch

Piedmont Classical’s top scorer, La’Trel Smith, is averaging 11.6 points per game, with Jalen Ferrell leading the team in rebounds (7.6) and Bryson Motley in steals (3.0). Their performance will be critical in challenging Leadership Academy’s offensive depth.

For Leadership Academy, Caden Ryker has been a standout player, leading his team with an impressive 19.2 points per game and 6.6 rebounds. Ryker’s ability to both score and facilitate plays will make him a major threat for Piedmont Classical. Caleb Foster, with his solid contribution in rebounds and assists, also brings additional stability to Leadership Academy’s lineup.

Stat Comparison:

While Piedmont Classical is competitive in several key areas, including assists and steals, Leadership Academy has the edge in rebounds and points, areas that will be crucial for controlling the game’s tempo and execution.

Looking Ahead: Head-to-Head and Common Opponents

Both teams have had encounters with similar opponents this season. Piedmont Classical has faced College Prep & Leadership Academy, losing 72-55 but winning against Bethany Community. Leadership Academy, on the other hand, remains undefeated against common opponents and will look to continue that streak.

Their head-to-head game on December 13 will set the tone for the rest of their seasons. The teams will meet again later in the season, on January 24, 2025, in Piedmont Classical’s home venue, which could prove pivotal in the race for conference dominance.

Conclusion

As the two teams prepare for battle on December 13, it is clear that Leadership Academy has the upper hand with a perfect record and a well-balanced team. However, Piedmont Classical is capable of pulling off an upset, especially with key performances from La’Trel Smith and Jalen Ferrell. With the game set to tip off at 7:30 PM, fans can expect a high-energy contest as both teams fight for a crucial conference victory.