The West Mesa varsity basketball team (Albuquerque, NM) will be hosting Hobbs (NM) for a home tournament game today at 7 p.m.
Game Information:
- Matchup: Hobbs vs West Mesa
- Date: Friday, January 10, 2025
- Time: 7:00 p.m.
- Live stream: Watch Here
Hobbs vs. West Mesa: A Breakdown of the 2024-2025 Basketball Season
The 2024-2025 basketball season has been filled with exciting matchups, and one of the most anticipated games is between the Hobbs Eagles and the West Mesa Mustangs. Both teams have shown their strengths and solid performances throughout the season, and with playoff aspirations on the line, this showdown promises to be an intense battle.
Team Records and Performance Overview
Hobbs Eagles (12-2 overall, .857 win %)
Hobbs has been dominant throughout the season with an impressive 12-2 record, including a perfect 6-0 record at home. Their performance on the road has also been strong, with a 3-2 record, while they remain undefeated at neutral sites with a 3-0 record. The Eagles have posted an overall solid win percentage of .857, reflecting their strong offense and tight defense. They lead the state in several key categories, with an average of 65.4 points per game.
West Mesa Mustangs (8-3 overall, .727 win %)
West Mesa, with an 8-3 record, has also had a productive season. Their home record is solid at 3-1, and they have been particularly strong on the road with a 4-1 record. The Mustangs have a slightly lower win percentage of .727, but they still boast an offense that has been very competitive, averaging 68.5 points per game. Their neutral record is 1-1, showing they are capable of handling various environments.
Team Scoring Averages
When comparing the two teams’ offensive output, Hobbs has a slight edge. The Eagles have been more consistent throughout the game, averaging 16.8 points in the first quarter, 13.5 in the second, 18.5 in the third, and 18.8 in the fourth quarter. Their final average of 65.4 points per game places them as one of the top teams in the state.
In contrast, West Mesa’s scoring is more uneven. The Mustangs start slower, averaging only 7 points in the first quarter and 5.7 in the second. However, they surge in the fourth quarter, averaging 55 points. Their final average of 68.5 points per game shows they can quickly put up points, making them dangerous in high-scoring situations.
Key Player Matchups
Hobbs
- Abraham Pena (16.5 PPG, 4.0 SPG) leads the Eagles in scoring and steals. Pena has been pivotal in Hobbs’ success, contributing both offensively and defensively.
- Jairus Turrubiates (8.0 RPG) is a strong force on the boards for Hobbs, providing valuable second-chance opportunities for the Eagles.
West Mesa
- West Mesa has a balanced roster but lacks a standout scorer like Hobbs’ Pena. Nonetheless, they have strong all-around contributors who can step up in different situations.
Stat Comparison: Hobbs vs. West Mesa
| Stat | Hobbs | West Mesa |
|---|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 65.4 | 68.5 |
| Rebounds Per Game | 7.5 | N/A |
| Assists Per Game | 2.7 | N/A |
| Steals Per Game | 2.5 | N/A |
| Blocks Per Game | 0.6 | N/A |
Head-to-Head and Common Opponents
Both teams share a few common opponents, which provides an interesting lens through which to compare their performances.
- Hobbs vs. Valley (January 8, 2025): Hobbs defeated Valley 63-39 in a dominating performance.
- West Mesa vs. Clovis (January 3, 2025): West Mesa won 78-67 in an impressive victory over Clovis.
- Hobbs vs. Clovis (January 31, 2025): Hobbs will face Clovis later in the season, aiming to add another victory to their record.
While both teams have faced similar challenges, Hobbs has proven more consistent, particularly in neutral and away games, while West Mesa shows they can shine on the road with multiple victories.
Conclusion
As we look ahead to this season’s potential playoff matchups, both Hobbs and West Mesa will be key contenders. Hobbs’ balanced offensive game and solid defense will continue to pose challenges for opponents, while West Mesa’s explosive scoring potential cannot be underestimated. As these two teams look toward future matchups and playoffs, their performances in head-to-head games and against common opponents will be critical in determining their chances for success. Whether it’s Hobbs’ steady play or West Mesa’s ability to turn it on in crucial moments, basketball fans can expect an exciting continuation of the 2024-2025 season.
