The Link Academy varsity basketball team from Branson, MO, will face Wasatch Academy from Mt. Pleasant, UT, in a neutral conference game on Friday, January 3, at 7:30 PM.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Utah High School Basketball
Who: Wasatch Academy vs Link Academy
When: Friday, January 03, 2025
Time: 7:30. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here

Game Preview: Wasatch Academy vs Link Academy

The 2024-2025 Utah high school basketball season is heating up with a spotlight on two standout programs: Wasatch Academy and Link Academy. Both teams have demonstrated exceptional skills and impressive records, but how do they stack up against each other and their competition?

Team Overview and Performance

Wasatch Academy (UT) Wasatch Academy, with a current overall record of 10-3, has showcased resilience throughout the season. With a .769 win percentage, the team has proven dominant at home with a 6-1 record. However, their performance in region play has been a bit mixed, with a 2-2 region record. Their average points per game (PPG) stands at 59.5, with the team leading in multiple statistical categories, including points per game (40.8), rebounds (12.2), assists (7.7), steals (3.5), and blocks (1.5).

Notable players include Isiah Harwell, who leads the team with 13.0 points per game, followed by Junior County, who contributes significantly with 4.6 rebounds per game and 1.3 steals per game.

Link Academy (MO) On the other hand, Link Academy has been unstoppable, sporting a remarkable 8-2 record so far, with a 1.000 district win percentage, showcasing their dominance in league play with a perfect 4-0 district record. Their overall win percentage is an impressive .800, and they average 70.2 points per game, outscoring many of their competitors. Link Academy is leading in points per game with 40.8, though their overall team stats show a more balanced effort across the board.

Jerry Easter leads the team with 11.5 points per game, while Chris Cenac is pivotal, contributing 6.0 rebounds per game and 4.5 assists per game.

Head-to-Head and Common Opponents

Both teams have faced similar challenges with a few common opponents. When comparing their results:

• Montverde Academy: Wasatch Academy lost to Montverde 77-47, while Link Academy’s showdown with the team is scheduled for February 14, 2025.
• Veritas Academy: Wasatch Academy secured a victory, 57-48, while Link Academy also won, 63-50.
• Legacy Early College: Both teams defeated Legacy, with Wasatch Academy winning 62-44 and Link Academy triumphing 58-39.
• Varsity Opponent: Wasatch Academy narrowly lost 83-80, while Link Academy dominated, winning 66-23.

As for their upcoming matchups, both teams will face high-profile programs like AZ Compass Prep National, IMG Academy, and La Lumiere, which will test their mettle and determine their standing as top-tier high school teams.

Player Comparisons

When comparing key players from each team:

• Wasatch Academy: Isiah Harwell stands out with his 13.0 PPG, supported by Junior County’s all-around contributions, including 1.3 steals per game.
• Link Academy: Jerry Easter (11.5 PPG) and Chris Cenac (6.0 RPG, 4.5 APG) form a formidable duo for Link Academy, providing both scoring and playmaking ability.

Record Breakdown

Wasatch Academy and Link Academy’s records are broken down as follows:

• Overall Record: Wasatch Academy (10-3), Link Academy (8-2)
• League/Region Performance: Wasatch Academy (2-2), Link Academy (4-0)
• Non-League Performance: Wasatch Academy (8-1), Link Academy (4-1)
• Home Record: Wasatch Academy (3-2), Link Academy (4-0)
• Away Record: Wasatch Academy (1-0), Link Academy (0-1)
• Neutral Site Record: Wasatch Academy (6-1), Link Academy (4-1)

Both teams have demonstrated strong performances but also show areas where their respective strengths and weaknesses might differ. Wasatch Academy’s tough losses against high-caliber teams like Montverde Academy point to opportunities for growth, while Link Academy’s perfect district record demonstrates their ability to dominate in their league.

Conclusion

As both teams continue their journey through the 2024-2025 season, the contrast between Wasatch Academy’s strong defensive and balanced team play and Link Academy’s high-scoring offense will make for intriguing matchups. With key games still ahead, including encounters with powerhouse programs, both teams are primed for exciting contests that could shape their standings heading into the postseason. Keep an eye on these rising basketball powerhouses as they navigate the remainder of the season.