Basketball fans in Washington, Connecticut, are gearing up for an electrifying matchup as the undefeated Shepaug Valley Spartans prepare to host the Academy of Aerospace and Engineering (AAAE) from Windsor on Friday, February 28, 2025. The game, set to tip off at 6:00 PM at Shepaug Valley High School, promises to be a thrilling non-conference battle between two of Connecticut’s top teams. With Shepaug Valley boasting a perfect 23-0 record and AAAE holding an impressive 14-3 mark, this game is a must-watch for high school basketball enthusiasts.
Matchup Overview
This game is more than just a non-conference showdown—it’s a clash of titans. Shepaug Valley has been nothing short of dominant this season, with a flawless 23-0 record and a staggering 1,841 points scored. On the other side, AAAE has been a powerhouse in their own right, with a 14-3 record and a reputation for high-scoring games. Both teams bring unique strengths to the court, making this a highly anticipated contest.
Team Breakdowns
Shepaug Valley Spartans
The Spartans have been the team to beat this season, with a perfect record that includes a 15-0 mark in league play and a 6-0 record in non-conference games. Their offense is a well-oiled machine, averaging an incredible 80.0 points per game. Leading the charge is #5 Reed Woerner, who has been nothing short of spectacular, averaging 27.4 points and 9.0 rebounds per game. Woerner is a dual threat, contributing on both ends of the court with 2.8 steals and 0.2 blocks per game.
Shepaug Valley’s balanced attack is further bolstered by #4 Drew Konik, who dishes out 5.2 assists per game, ensuring the offense runs smoothly. The Spartans’ ability to dominate in every quarter, particularly in the first (19.0 points per quarter), has been a key factor in their success.
Academy of Aerospace and Engineering (AAAE)
AAAE comes into this game with a strong 14-3 record, including a 5-2 mark in league play. Their offense is no slouch either, averaging 67.3 points per game, led by #5 Julian Surdyka, who pours in 21.0 points per game and grabs 5.8 rebounds. Surdyka’s ability to score efficiently makes him a constant threat on the court.
The team’s playmaking is anchored by #2 Kimar Malone, who averages 5.6 assists and 3.5 steals per game, showcasing his ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor. AAAE’s defense, which averages 15.2 steals per game, will be crucial in trying to disrupt Shepaug Valley’s high-powered offense.
Key Stats and Comparisons
- Scoring: Shepaug Valley holds a significant edge in scoring, averaging 80.0 points per game compared to AAAE’s 67.3.
- Rebounding: The Spartans dominate the boards with 34.0 rebounds per game, while AAAE averages 29.8.
- Assists: Both teams are evenly matched in assists, with Shepaug Valley averaging 14.6 and AAAE close behind at 14.3.
- Defense: AAAE’s ability to generate steals (15.2 per game) could be a game-changer, but Shepaug Valley’s disciplined play (8.1 steals per game) will be tested.
What to Watch For
- Reed Woerner vs. Julian Surdyka: A battle of the stars as Woerner’s all-around dominance faces off against Surdyka’s scoring prowess.
- Shepaug Valley’s Home-Court Advantage: The Spartans are a perfect 12-0 at home this season, and their fans will undoubtedly bring the energy.
- Turnover Battle: AAAE’s high steal count could force Shepaug Valley into mistakes, but the Spartans’ disciplined play will be key to maintaining control.
- First-Quarter Momentum: Shepaug Valley’s strong starts (19.0 points in the first quarter) could set the tone for the game.
How to Follow
For fans unable to attend the game in person, live updates will be provided by reporters for both teams. Be sure to follow along for real-time insights and highlights.
Final Thoughts
This non-conference matchup between Shepaug Valley and AAAE is a rare opportunity to see two of Connecticut’s top teams go head-to-head. With Shepaug Valley’s perfect record on the line and AAAE looking to make a statement, this game has all the ingredients for a classic. Whether you’re a fan of high-scoring offenses, intense defense, or simply great basketball, this is a game you won’t want to miss. Mark your calendars for Friday, February 28, at 6:00 PM, and witness what promises to be an unforgettable showdown at Shepaug Valley High School!
