The Bismarck (ND) varsity basketball team will play a home conference game against Minot (ND) today at 7:45 PM.

Matchup Details:

• Teams: Minot vs Bismarck
• Date: Friday, January 31, 2025
• Time: 7:45 PM
• Live stream: Watch Here
• Live stream: Watch Here

Minot vs. Bismarck: A North Dakota Basketball Showdown

The basketball rivalry between Minot and Bismarck, two of North Dakota’s premier teams, has been nothing short of thrilling this season. Both teams have shown strong performances, setting the stage for a memorable finish to their campaigns. Let’s take a look at the rankings, records, head-to-head matchups, and common opponents that have defined this exciting season.

Team Records and Performance Breakdown

Minot (24-25) has compiled a strong 17-8 overall record, including a 12-7 district record. They have demonstrated resilience, with a notable 9-5 home record and a strong 5-3 away showing. Their offensive firepower has been evident, averaging 76.0 points per game this season.

Bismarck (24-25), meanwhile, is enjoying a remarkable 12-2 overall record and has been dominant in district play with a 9-2 record. Their home court advantage has been significant, with a 6-1 record. On the road, they’ve also been tough, posting a 4-1 mark. With an impressive 83.0 points per game, Bismarck has been one of the highest-scoring teams in the state this season.

Recent Head-to-Head Matchups

The rivalry between Minot and Bismarck has been intense, with each team claiming victories in recent matchups. On December 20, 2024, Minot secured a decisive win at home, defeating Bismarck 83-66. However, just a few weeks later on January 17, 2025, Bismarck bounced back with a commanding 73-42 victory on Minot’s home court.

These results illustrate the competitive nature of this rivalry, as both teams have demonstrated the ability to win on the other’s turf. With both teams playing well, there’s no telling how their upcoming matchups will unfold.

Common Opponents: A Closer Look

Both Minot and Bismarck have faced several common opponents throughout the season, which provides some insight into how they measure up against teams outside the rivalry. Minot has faced a tougher slate in terms of win-loss records for common opponents, going 14-7 compared to Bismarck’s 10-1. Key games for Minot included wins over Williston, Sheyenne, St. Mary’s Central, and Grand Forks Central. However, losses to Legacy and Dickinson were challenging tests that the team will look to overcome moving forward.

Bismarck, on the other hand, has been perfect against several common opponents, such as Williston, Legacy, and West Fargo. Their win over West Fargo was particularly dominant, finishing 98-75. The strength of their roster has been evident, with standout performances across various matchups. They have consistently proved themselves capable of handling tough teams and are favored in many of their upcoming games.

The Road Ahead

With a packed schedule ahead, both teams will look to maintain their momentum. Minot’s next challenge comes on February 4, 2025, against Williston, where they’ll look to build on their strong performance earlier this season. As for Bismarck, they will face off against Red River and Williston before their next showdown with Minot on February 21, 2025.

Looking ahead, February will be a pivotal month for both teams. Bismarck will look to continue their dominance, while Minot will seek to avenge earlier defeats and build on their strong district record.

Conclusion

The basketball rivalry between Minot and Bismarck is one of the most exciting in North Dakota. Both teams have shown flashes of brilliance, and with so much talent on both sides, fans can expect the rest of the season to be a thrilling spectacle. Whether it’s Minot’s resilience or Bismarck’s offensive firepower, both teams have proven themselves worthy of a championship run. As the season progresses, expect more high-intensity matchups that will determine the true king of North Dakota high school basketball.