Most Intriguing Conference Races: Big Rivers
We’re at the halfway point of the 2018-19 season. Prep Hoops Wisconsin takes a closer look at some of the more intriguing conference title races, continuing with the Big Rivers… CURRENT STANDINGS 1. Eau Claire North 4-2 1. Hudson…
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Continue ReadingWe’re at the halfway point of the 2018-19 season. Prep Hoops Wisconsin takes a closer look at some of the more intriguing conference title races, continuing with the Big Rivers…
CURRENT STANDINGS
1. Eau Claire North 4-2
1. Hudson 4-2
1. Eau Claire Memorial 4-2
1. River Falls 4-2
5. Chippewa Falls 3-3
6. Menomonie 2-4
7. Rice Lake 0-6
BREAKING DOWN THE RACE
Four teams are currently tied atop the Big Rivers Conference. We felt going into the season that there wasn’t a clear cut favorite and that has been the case with River Falls, Hudson, Eau Claire North, and Eau Claire Memorial all still jockeying for position.
The battles between the top four teams have been extremely tight as well, with many ending in one-possession or single-digit games.
SURPRISE TEAM
Eau Claire North won the conference last season, but they lost two top scorers from their 21-4 squad. At 9-3, the Huskies have the best overall record within the conference and are 2-1 against the other three first place squads.
OUR PICK
We’re splitting hairs between the top four teams, but Hudson seems to be expending the least amount of energy right now and could be the most balanced squad. Keyser Helterbrand (16.1 ppg), Luke Healy (15.4 ppg), and Jacob Daulton (12.1 ppg) make up a nice scoring trio.
The Raiders currently have a tie breaker over North and Memorial, but may have to avenge a loss to River Falls on the road in late January. Hudson beat Memorial by 19 points and is one of the few teams to have contained Dalton Banks this season.
HALFWAY POINT PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Doesn’t seem to be much question that Dalton Banks is the most valuable player in the conference. The junior guard leads the Big Rivers in scoring at 26.8 ppg, is third in rebounding (7.7 rpg), and first in assists (7.1 apg).