The North Kingstown (RI) varsity basketball team is set to host Central (Providence, RI) for a home conference game today at 7 PM.

Game Information:

• Matchup: Central vs. North Kingstown
• Date: Friday, January 24, 2025
• Time: 7:00 PM
• Live stream: Watch Here
• Live stream: Watch Here
• Location: North Kingstown High School (NKHS)

High School Basketball Showdown: Central vs. North Kingstown

As the winter basketball season heats up, the rivalry between Central (Providence, RI) and North Kingstown intensifies, with both teams preparing for key matchups in the coming days. The first game between the two teams is scheduled for tonight, January 25, at North Kingstown, followed by a highly anticipated return game on January 27 at Central.

Season Overview

Central (8-4 overall, 6-2 in league play) has demonstrated strong performance this season, maintaining a .667 win percentage overall and an impressive .750 win percentage within their league. Their offense has been a key strength, averaging 76.4 points per game, with standout performances from key players like Lester Rodriguez, who is averaging 22.1 points per game. Central’s strong play has been evident in their offensive consistency, averaging 19 points in the first quarter and 21.8 in the second, maintaining an average of nearly 25 points in the third.

On the other hand, North Kingstown (5-7 overall, 5-7 in league play) has faced a more challenging season, posting a .417 win percentage both overall and in the league. Despite their struggles, North Kingstown’s defense has kept games close, and they’ve shown resilience in their play, especially in the fourth quarter where they average 17.1 points. Michael Deorsey, North Kingstown’s leading scorer with 16.1 points per game, and Jake Perry, who averages 5.8 rebounds, will need to deliver big performances for the team to pull off an upset.

Head-to-Head Preview

In terms of head-to-head matchups, Central has had a solid track record this season, securing victories against teams like Smithfield, Barrington, and Cranston East. They’ve shown dominance on both ends of the court, boasting balanced scoring and solid team defense. North Kingstown, while struggling with consistency, has shown moments of brilliance, including victories over teams like Smithfield and Portsmouth.

The two teams have a shared record against common opponents. Central has a 6-2 record against common opponents, while North Kingstown sits at 3-5. This indicates that Central has had the upper hand against teams with comparable competition, but North Kingstown could still surprise with their grit and determination.

Key Players to Watch

Central’s Lester Rodriguez is a key player to watch, leading the team in scoring with over 22 points per game. His ability to score efficiently and create plays will be crucial for Central as they look to maintain their strong record. Landon Bodington, with 4.9 assists per game, will also be essential in distributing the ball and keeping the offense fluid.

North Kingstown’s Michael Deorsey, averaging 16.1 points per game, will be the focal point of their offense. The combination of Deorsey and Perry, who contributes significantly in both rebounds and defense, could be the key to North Kingstown’s success.

Statistical Breakdown

When it comes to overall team statistics, Central boasts higher averages across the board. They score 65 points per game compared to North Kingstown’s 60.9, with a significant advantage in assists (14.5 per game vs. 9.0) and steals (4.5 per game vs. 3.5). However, North Kingstown has demonstrated the ability to compete with strong defensive efforts, making their upcoming matchup one to watch closely.

Upcoming Matchups

• January 25, 2025: Central @ North Kingstown – 7:00 PM
• January 27, 2025: North Kingstown @ Central – 6:30 PM

Both games will be crucial for each team’s playoff positioning, with Central looking to continue its strong form and North Kingstown aiming to turn their season around with a much-needed win.

As the season progresses, this rivalry could become even more significant, with both teams striving for success in the competitive Rhode Island high school basketball landscape. Will Central maintain their dominance, or will North Kingstown rise to the challenge? Stay tuned as these two teams prepare to battle it out on the court.