The Denver South Ravens (Denver, CO) and the Fossil Ridge SaberCats (Fort Collins, CO) are set to face off in a neutral-site playoff game as part of the 2025 CHSAA Boys Basketball State Tournament – Class 6A. The game will take place on Friday, February 28, 2025, at 6:00 PM, and promises to be a thrilling showdown between two evenly matched teams. With both squads boasting identical 15-8 overall records, this game is shaping up to be a nail-biter. Fans can catch all the action live, with score updates provided by dedicated reporters for both teams.
The Matchup: Denver South vs. Fossil Ridge
This playoff game is a pivotal moment for both teams as they look to advance in the state tournament. Denver South enters the game with a strong offensive presence, averaging 68.5 points per game, while Fossil Ridge relies on a balanced attack and solid defense, allowing just 1,171 points this season. The neutral-site setting adds an extra layer of intrigue, as neither team will have the advantage of home-court support.
Team Breakdown
Denver South Ravens
The Ravens are led by their dynamic guard, #1 Dominic Rhoades-Martinez, who averages 16.2 points per game, 5.3 assists per game, and 3.5 steals per game. Rhoades-Martinez’s ability to score, distribute, and disrupt on defense makes him the heart of Denver South’s success. #23 Jayden Davis has also been a key contributor, averaging 4.0 rebounds per game, providing stability in the paint.
Denver South’s offense has been their calling card this season, scoring 1,575 points overall. Their ability to push the tempo and create scoring opportunities has been a major factor in their success. Additionally, the Ravens’ defense has been opportunistic, averaging 12.5 steals per game, which could pose a challenge for Fossil Ridge’s ball handlers.
Fossil Ridge SaberCats
The SaberCats are anchored by their standout forward, #33 Drake Walker, who averages 13.4 points per game, 4.2 rebounds per game, and 2.6 assists per game. Walker’s versatility and leadership have been instrumental in Fossil Ridge’s success this season. #1 Walker Shields has also been a key defensive presence, averaging 1.7 steals per game.
Fossil Ridge’s strength lies in their disciplined play and ability to control the game’s tempo. They average 26.8 rebounds per game, just slightly behind Denver South’s 27.1 rebounds per game, and their defense has been stout, allowing only 1,171 points this season. If the SaberCats can limit Denver South’s high-powered offense, they’ll have a strong chance to come out on top.
Key Stats and Trends
- Scoring: Denver South averages 68.5 points per game, while Fossil Ridge averages 61.3 points per game.
- Rebounding: Both teams are nearly even, with Denver South averaging 27.1 rebounds per game and Fossil Ridge averaging 26.8 rebounds per game.
- Assists: Denver South’s ball movement has been exceptional, averaging 17.7 assists per game, compared to Fossil Ridge’s 13.0 assists per game.
- Defense: Fossil Ridge’s defense has been slightly more effective, allowing 1,171 points this season, while Denver South has allowed 1,331 points.
- Common Opponents: Denver South holds a 4-1 record against common opponents, while Fossil Ridge is 1-2. This includes Denver South’s wins over Chaparral and Denver East, teams that Fossil Ridge struggled against.
What to Watch For
- Dominic Rhoades-Martinez vs. Drake Walker: The battle between these two stars will be a highlight. Rhoades-Martinez’s scoring and playmaking against Walker’s all-around game could determine the outcome.
- Turnovers and Steals: Denver South’s ability to force turnovers (12.5 steals per game) could disrupt Fossil Ridge’s offense, while the SaberCats will need to protect the ball to stay competitive.
- Rebounding Battle: Both teams are nearly even on the boards, making this a critical area to watch. Second-chance points could be a deciding factor.
- Neutral-Site Pressure: With no home-court advantage for either team, execution under pressure will be key. Which team can handle the playoff atmosphere better?
How to Watch
Can’t make it to the game? Stay tuned for live updates from the dedicated reporters for both teams. Whether you’re cheering for the Ravens or the SaberCats, this game is sure to deliver excitement, intensity, and unforgettable moments.
Final Thoughts
As the Denver South Ravens and Fossil Ridge SaberCats take the court, the stakes couldn’t be higher. With both teams boasting identical records and contrasting styles of play, this neutral-site playoff game is a must-watch for basketball fans. Will Denver South’s high-powered offense and opportunistic defense propel them to victory, or will Fossil Ridge’s disciplined play and stout defense lead them to an upset? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: this playoff showdown will be one for the books.
