The ThunderRidge Grizzlies, one of Colorado’s top Class 6A basketball teams, are gearing up for a high-stakes playoff matchup against the Vista PEAK Prep Bison. This neutral-site game, part of the 2025 CHSAA Boys Basketball State Tournament, will take place on Friday, February 28, at 6 p.m. With both teams looking to advance in the postseason, this clash promises to be a thrilling contest filled with intensity and drama.
The Matchup: Vista PEAK Prep Bison vs. ThunderRidge Grizzlies
The Vista PEAK Prep Bison, from Aurora, CO, enter the game with a 10-14 overall record and a 2-8 league performance. Despite their struggles in league play, the Bison have shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in their ability to score, averaging 60.8 points per game. Their offense is led by #2 Marquilos Mata, who averages 11.7 points per game, and #3 Larry Mosley, who contributes 5.4 rebounds and 1.0 blocks per game. Vista PEAK Prep has also been strong on the boards, averaging 26.6 rebounds per game, which could be a key factor in keeping them competitive.
On the other side, the ThunderRidge Grizzlies, from Highlands Ranch, CO, come into the game as heavy favorites. With an impressive 18-5 overall record and a dominant 9-1 league performance, the Grizzlies have been one of the most consistent teams in the state. They average 66.5 points per game and are led by their star player, #15 Drew Paine, who averages 19.3 points and 8.0 rebounds per game. Paine’s ability to dominate both ends of the floor makes him a player to watch. Additionally, #5 Aman Binu, who leads the team with 5.8 assists and 1.3 steals per game, will be crucial in orchestrating the Grizzlies’ offense.
Key Stats and Comparisons
- Scoring: ThunderRidge holds a clear advantage in scoring, averaging 66.5 points per game compared to Vista PEAK Prep’s 60.8. The Grizzlies have been particularly strong in the second and fourth quarters, averaging 18.0 and 17.4 points, respectively.
- Rebounding: ThunderRidge dominates the glass, averaging 30.0 rebounds per game to Vista PEAK Prep’s 26.6. This could be a decisive factor in controlling the game’s tempo and limiting second-chance opportunities for the Bison.
- Assists and Steals: The Grizzlies excel in ball movement, averaging 15.4 assists per game compared to the Bison’s 12.6. However, Vista PEAK Prep has been more active in generating steals, averaging 9.7 per game to ThunderRidge’s 6.7.
- Blocks: ThunderRidge has a slight edge in shot-blocking, averaging 2.8 blocks per game compared to Vista PEAK Prep’s 2.1. Drew Paine’s 1.2 blocks per game will be key in protecting the rim.
Players to Watch
- Vista PEAK Prep Bison: Marquilos Mata is the offensive engine for the Bison, leading the team in scoring. Larry Mosley’s presence in the paint, both as a rebounder and shot-blocker, will be critical in slowing down ThunderRidge’s attack.
- ThunderRidge Grizzlies: Drew Paine is the standout player for the Grizzlies, capable of taking over the game on both ends of the floor. Aman Binu’s playmaking and defensive intensity will also be pivotal in setting the tone for ThunderRidge.
What’s at Stake?
This game is a pivotal moment in the 2025 CHSAA Boys Basketball State Tournament. For Vista PEAK Prep, a win would be a massive upset and a testament to their resilience. For ThunderRidge, a victory would solidify their status as one of the top contenders in Class 6A and keep their championship aspirations alive.
Common Opponents Analysis
The two teams have faced several common opponents this season, with ThunderRidge holding a clear edge. The Grizzlies are 4-1 against shared opponents, including dominant wins over Denver East (80-59) and Northfield (82-48). Vista PEAK Prep, on the other hand, is 3-6 against common opponents, with notable wins over Cherry Creek (73-68) and Denver East (59-57). This suggests that ThunderRidge has been more consistent against tougher competition.
Final Thoughts
As the clock ticks down to tip-off, all eyes will be on this neutral-site showdown. Can Vista PEAK Prep pull off a stunning upset behind the leadership of Marquilos Mata and Larry Mosley? Or will Drew Paine and the ThunderRidge Grizzlies continue their dominant season and advance in the playoffs? Basketball fans won’t want to miss this exciting matchup on Friday, February 28, at 6 p.m.
Be sure to follow along with live updates and score tracking, courtesy of Bruce Hanson, Vista PEAK Prep’s Live Reporter, and Aman Binu, the Grizzlies’ All-Star Reporter. Let the games begin!
