Basketball Game Preview: Payson Longhorns vs. Alchesay Falcons

Payson hasn't had much luck against Alchesay recently, but that could start to change on Saturday. The Payson Longhorns will look to defend their home court against the Alchesay Falcons at 6:00 p.m. Payson is strutting in with some offensive muscle as they've averaged 54.7 points per game this season.

Last Thursday, Payson humbled Bourgade Catholic with a 77-23 victory. The Longhorns have made a habit of sweeping their opponents off the court, having now won 11 games by 27 points or more this season.

Payson's win was a true team effort, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Grace DeSchaaf, who went 6 for 8 on her way to 13 points in addition to six rebounds and three steals. What's more, DeSchaaf also racked up three blocks, the most she's had since back in January of 2024. Another player making a difference was Clara Whaley, who posted 14 points and five steals.

Payson smashed the offensive glass and finished the game with 23 offensive boards. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now pulled down at least nine offensive boards in nine consecutive matches.

Meanwhile, Alchesay ended up a good deal behind Blue Ridge on Friday and lost 56-41. The Falcons have now taken an 'L' in back-to-back games.

Payson pushed their record up to 15-4 with the victory, which was their fifth straight on the road. The wins came thanks to their defensive effort, having only surrendered 23.0 points per game. As for Alchesay, their loss dropped their record down to 10-10.

Payson suffered a grim 56-31 defeat to Alchesay in their previous matchup back in December of 2019. Can Payson avenge their defeat or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.