The West Caldwell (Lenoir, NC) varsity basketball team will face Asheville Christian Academy (Swannanoa, NC) today at 5:30 PM in a neutral-site game during the Freedom Christmas Tournament.

Here’s what you need Basketball to know:

What: North Carolina High School Basketball
Who: West Caldwell vs Asheville Christian Academy
When: Friday, December 27, 2024
Time: 5:30. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch Here

A Closer Look at Asheville Christian Academy vs. West Caldwell: A Competitive Showdown in NC High School Basketball

As the 2024-2025 high school basketball season progresses, two teams in North Carolina have been catching attention for their impressive records and competitive play: Asheville Christian Academy (ACA) and West Caldwell. Both teams have enjoyed strong starts to the season, boasting high winning percentages and dynamic rosters. Here’s a deep dive into the stats, team comparisons, and upcoming matchups between these two high school powerhouses.

Overall Team Records

• Asheville Christian Academy: With a 6-2 overall record and a perfect 1-0 conference mark, ACA has been performing exceptionally well so far this season. The team’s ability to win both at home and on the road has been notable, with a 3-2 record away and a perfect 3-0 record in neutral-site games. Their offensive power has been reflected in their 511 points scored, while they’ve allowed 455 points across all games, giving them a solid win percentage of .750.
• West Caldwell: Holding an 8-2 record, West Caldwell has been dominating in the early stages of the season. Like ACA, they are undefeated in conference play (2-0). Their performance on the road (5-1) and at home (2-1) has been strong, but they also showed resilience in neutral-site games (1-0). West Caldwell has racked up 649 points and conceded 584 points, showcasing a win percentage of .800.

Team Scoring Breakdown

When it comes to scoring, the two teams have been consistently high-scoring affairs.

• Asheville Christian Academy: The team scores an average of 63.9 points per game, with their most dominant quarter being the third (19.5 points per game). They have shown particular strength in the opening (16.0 points) and third quarters. With a mix of solid defense and explosive offense, they’ve consistently kept up the pace.
• West Caldwell: Averaging 64.9 points per game, West Caldwell has had a balanced attack across all four quarters. Their highest-scoring quarter comes in the second (17.0 points), followed by a solid showing in the third (17.0 points). This steady scoring ability allows them to maintain pressure on their opponents throughout the game.

Statistical Comparison

• Points Per Game: Both teams are averaging around 64 points per game, with West Caldwell leading by just under one point.
• Rebounds Per Game: ACA grabs 25.7 rebounds per game, while West Caldwell leads with 29.1. The rebounding advantage is a crucial factor that could play a pivotal role in future matchups, giving West Caldwell an edge in controlling the glass.
• Assists Per Game: ACA averages 11.6 assists, indicating a strong team-oriented offensive playstyle. West Caldwell’s assists average is slightly lower, but their effective scoring system has allowed them to excel despite fewer assists per game.
• Steals Per Game: ACA’s defense is anchored by Zion Thomas, who leads with 3.3 steals per game. West Caldwell, while strong defensively, averages fewer steals at 0.9 per game. The difference in steals per game could be key in a close game, as turnovers and transition opportunities may give ACA an advantage.
• Blocks Per Game: ACA also leads in blocks, with Bryson Edmisten averaging 0.8 blocks per game, compared to West Caldwell’s 0.3. Defensive presence in the paint could make a significant difference in these two teams’ future showdowns.

Key Players

• Asheville Christian Academy:
  • Jay Maxwell leads the team in points with 16.0 per game.
  • Bryson Edmisten is a key player in the post, contributing both in scoring and rebounding (7.0 RPG).
  • Zion Thomas provides stellar defensive play and facilitates offense, leading the team in assists (6.0) and steals (3.3).
• West Caldwell:
  • West Caldwell’s balanced offense and defense rely on key players, but specific stats for their standout performers were not detailed in this comparison.

Upcoming Matchup and Common Opponents

Both teams have had mixed results against common opponents. ACA will face off against Watauga on January 4th, 2025, while West Caldwell recently lost to them (67-50). This could be an opportunity for ACA to gain an upper hand in comparison to West Caldwell, who struggled in their head-to-head encounter with Watauga.

Record Breakdown

Both teams have excelled against non-conference and out-of-state competition, showing that they can compete with teams outside their respective leagues. However, their performances in-state and in conference play highlight the intensity of local rivalries. ACA’s perfect conference record is something West Caldwell will be aiming to match.

Conclusion: Who Has the Upper Hand?

While both teams are formidable opponents with strong records and standout players, West Caldwell’s slight edge in overall points per game and rebounding may give them a slight advantage heading into any future matchups. However, Asheville Christian Academy’s solid defensive play and ability to score in bursts make them a dangerous team capable of upsetting stronger opponents. With an upcoming game against common opponent Watauga and a near-perfect conference record, ACA could prove to be a tough challenge for West Caldwell as the season progresses.

This matchup will be one to watch closely as both teams aim for conference dominance and potential playoff success.