The Westwood varsity basketball team from Blythewood, SC, will face J.L. Mann from Greenville, SC, in a neutral non-conference game on Friday, December 27, 2024, at 4:30 PM as part of the RNE Tournament.
Here’s what you need Basketball to know:
What: South Carolina High School Basketball
Who: Westwood vs J.L. Mann
When: Friday, December 27, 2024
Time: 4:30. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch Here
J.L. Mann vs. Westwood: A Tale of Two Seasons
The 2024-2025 high school basketball season has been a contrasting journey for J.L. Mann and Westwood. While Westwood has enjoyed an undefeated season thus far, J.L. Mann has struggled to find its footing. Here’s a breakdown of their performances, strengths, and key statistics as both teams look ahead to their next challenges.
Season Records and Rankings
- J.L. Mann (24-25)
Overall Record: 3-8
State Rank: 153 (46th in class)
Win Percentage: 27.3% - Westwood (24-25)
Overall Record: 10-0
State Rank: 8 (3rd in class)
Win Percentage: 100%
While J.L. Mann has experienced a difficult season, Westwood has emerged as one of the top teams in South Carolina, currently undefeated and ranked among the best nationally.
Team Scoring and Performance Averages
J.L. Mann and Westwood present different styles of play, as reflected in their scoring patterns:
| Quarter | J.L. Mann | Westwood |
|---|---|---|
| Q1 | 10.7 | 11.3 |
| Q2 | 14.6 | 11.0 |
| Q3 | 16.1 | 18.5 |
| Q4 | 20.1 | 11.5 |
| Final | 64.5 | 63.3 |
J.L. Mann consistently scores more points per game (64.5) compared to Westwood (63.3), despite the difference in their win-loss records. However, Westwood’s dominance in defensive play, especially in the second half, has been key to their success.
Statistical Comparison
| Category | J.L. Mann | Westwood |
|---|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 63.2 | 55.8 |
| Rebounds Per Game | 31.6 | 27.5 |
| Assists Per Game | 13.2 | 12.6 |
| Steals Per Game | 7.0 | 9.3 |
| Blocks Per Game | 3.0 | 4.1 |
J.L. Mann holds a slight edge in points and rebounds per game, but Westwood compensates with superior steals and blocks, indicating a strong defensive approach.
Team Leaders
- J.L. Mann
- Points Per Game: #12 Dontez Walker (20.4)
- Rebounds Per Game: #12 Dontez Walker (11.2)
- Assists Per Game: #1 Nickoli Williams (3.0)
- Steals Per Game: #1 Nickoli Williams (2.4)
- Blocks Per Game: #21 Andrew Johnson (1.0)
- Westwood
- Points Per Game: #5 D’Marcus Thomas (11.4)
- Rebounds Per Game: #3 Sean Goddard (6.1)
- Assists Per Game: #5 D’Marcus Thomas (4.4)
- Steals Per Game: #10 Derrick Brown (2.7)
- Blocks Per Game: #3 Sean Goddard (2.7)
Dontez Walker of J.L. Mann is a standout performer, averaging a double-double with 20.4 points and 11.2 rebounds per game. Westwood, on the other hand, boasts a more balanced attack, with contributions from D’Marcus Thomas and Sean Goddard.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Despite not having faced each other this season, the two teams’ records against common opponents tell a story. Westwood defeated Richland Northeast twice, while J.L. Mann has yet to play them. This could hint at Westwood’s dominance if the two teams were to meet.
Conclusion
J.L. Mann is in the midst of a rebuilding season, relying on the individual brilliance of players like Dontez Walker and Nickoli Williams. Meanwhile, Westwood has shown why they are a force to be reckoned with, combining strong defense and teamwork to remain undefeated.
As the season progresses, J.L. Mann will aim to turn their fortunes around, while Westwood looks to maintain their unblemished record and solidify their place as a top contender in South Carolina basketball.
