Basketball Game Preview: John Paul II Golden Warrriors vs. Wilson Hall Barons

The John Paul II Golden Warrriors will head out to face off against the Wilson Hall Barons at 5:00 p.m. on Friday. John Paul II is strutting in with some offensive muscle as they've averaged 53.9 points per game this season.

Last Friday, John Paul II ended up a good deal behind Trinity Collegiate and lost 63-45. While losing is never fun, the Golden Warrriors can't take it too hard given the team's big disadvantage in MaxPreps' South Carolina basketball rankings (they are ranked 45th, while the Titans are ranked ninth).

Despite their loss, John Paul II saw several players rise to the challenge and make noteworthy plays. Hollis Melnick, who posted nine points and five boards, was perhaps the best of all. What's more, Melnick also racked up two assists, the most she's had since back in November of 2024. Another player making a difference was Savannah Washington, who went 5 of 8 on her way to 10 points and six rebounds.

Meanwhile, Wilson Hall had to endure a five-game losing streak, but that streak is no more. Everything went their way against Hilton Head Christian Academy on Friday as Wilson Hall made off with a 45-22 victory. For those keeping track at home, that's the biggest win the Barons have posted since November 25, 2024.

John Paul II's defeat ended a five-game streak of away wins and brought them to 13-3. As for Wilson Hall, their victory was their first in the region, bumping their region record up to 1-2 and their overall record up to 6-12.

Everything came up roses for John Paul II against Wilson Hall in their previous matchup on January 7th, as the team secured a 61-26 win. The rematch might be a little tougher for John Paul II since the squad won't have the home-court advantage this time around. We'll see if the change in venue makes a difference.