The Henrico varsity basketball team (Richmond, VA) will host a conference game against Varina (Richmond, VA) on Friday, January 31, at 7:30 PM.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Virginia High School Basketball
Who: Varina vs Henrico
When: Friday, January 31, 2025
Time: 7:30. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here

Game Preview: Varina vs Henrico

As the Virginia high school basketball season heats up, all eyes turn to an exciting conference matchup between the Varina Blue Devils and the Henrico Warriors. Both teams, based in Richmond, VA, are set to face off twice in the coming weeks, with the first clash taking place at Henrico on January 31, followed by a rematch at Varina on February 18. These games promise intense competition and will likely have implications for the postseason.

Team Performance Overview

Varina Blue Devils (10-2, 4-0 Region)

Ranked 14th in the state and first in their division, Varina has demonstrated dominance throughout the season. With an impressive 10-2 overall record and an unbeaten 4-0 regional mark, they have consistently showcased their strength. Varina’s offensive firepower has been evident, averaging 71.2 points per game while allowing just 51.2 points per contest. Their ability to pull away in the second half has been key, averaging over 20 points in the third quarter alone.

Henrico Warriors (7-6, 4-4 Region)

Henrico, ranked 119th in the state, has shown flashes of brilliance but struggled with consistency. Sporting a 7-6 overall record and a 4-4 region mark, they have demonstrated resilience but will need to elevate their play to challenge Varina. The Warriors average 65.4 points per game while allowing 62.5, making their defensive effort crucial in the upcoming battles.

Head-to-Head Preview

The January 31 and February 18 matchups mark the first meetings between these two teams this season. With Varina currently undefeated in regional play and Henrico looking to build momentum, both contests will serve as critical tests for each squad.

Common Opponent Comparison

Examining results against common opponents offers insight into how these teams match up:

• Hermitage: Varina won 72-52, while Henrico fell 84-67.
• Armstrong: Both teams secured victories, Varina winning 67-33 and Henrico 79-65.
• Mechanicsville: Varina dominated 90-25, and Henrico followed suit with an 81-40 victory.
• Highland Springs: Varina won convincingly 73-57, but Henrico suffered a narrow 77-73 defeat.
• Patrick Henry: Varina won comfortably 84-49, while Henrico eked out a close 54-50 win.
• Hanover: Varina has yet to face Hanover, while Henrico split their games, winning 60-57 but losing 83-69.
• Atlee: Varina’s matchup is upcoming, while Henrico struggled, losing twice (77-39, 88-64).
• Spotsylvania: Varina’s game is pending, while Henrico won 73-33.

Varina holds a clear edge in common opponent results, posting a 5-0 record compared to Henrico’s 5-5. This suggests Varina may have the upper hand heading into these matchups.

Key Factors to Watch

1. Varina’s Second-Half Surge: The Blue Devils have dominated third quarters, often putting games out of reach. Can Henrico counter this?
2. Henrico’s Home-Court Advantage: With a 5-2 home record, Henrico will look to feed off the crowd’s energy in the first matchup.
3. Defense vs. Offense: Varina’s defense has held opponents to just over 50 points per game. Can Henrico’s 65.4-point scoring average break through?
4. Star Performers: Expect Varina’s leading scorers to play a major role, while Henrico will need big contributions from their key players.

Prediction & Outlook

With a stronger record, superior performances against common opponents, and a more potent scoring attack, Varina enters as the favorite. However, Henrico has an opportunity to make a statement, especially in the home fixture. If the Warriors can tighten their defense and capitalize on home-court momentum, they could make things interesting.

Regardless of the outcome, these matchups are set to be thrilling encounters between two talented teams. Fans should prepare for intense, high-energy basketball as these Richmond rivals battle for supremacy.