Preview: Genoa-Hugo/Karval Pirates vs. Bethune Bobcats
Genoa-Hugo/Karval is on a four-game streak of home losses, Bethune a five-game streak of away losses, but someone's luck is about to change. The Genoa-Hugo/Karval Pirates will take on the Bethune Bobcats at 5:30 p.m. on Friday. Given that both teams suffered a loss in their last game, they both have a little extra motivation heading into this game.
Genoa-Hugo/Karval suffered their biggest defeat yet this season on Saturday. They were beaten by Cheyenne Wells 63-28. The result shouldn't come as a shock considering that's the fewest points Genoa-Hugo/Karval has scored all season.
Despite the defeat, Genoa-Hugo/Karval got a solid performance out of Trey Smith, who scored 19 points along with six rebounds and three steals. That was a full 67.9% of Genoa-Hugo/Karval's points, marking the third time in a row he's earned more than a third of the team's points.
Genoa-Hugo/Karval struggled to work together and finished the game with only an assist. That's the fewest assists they've managed all season.
Meanwhile, Bethune came up short against Deer Trail on Tuesday and fell 30-23.
Despite the loss, Bethune had strong showings from Angel Herrera, who scored nine points along with 14 rebounds and two steals, and Ty Morris, who scored six points along with three steals.
Genoa-Hugo/Karval has been struggling recently, as they've lost five of their last six matchups, which put a noticeable dent in their 4-7 record this season. As for Bethune, their loss dropped their record down to 1-9.
This contest is one where the number of possessions is likely to be a big factor: Genoa-Hugo/Karval have been smashing the glass this season, having averaged 28.5 rebounds per game. However, it's not like Bethune struggles in that department as they've been averaging 23.6 rebounds per game. Given these competing strengths, it'll be interesting to see how their clash plays out.
Everything came up roses for Genoa-Hugo/Karval against Bethune in their previous matchup back in January of 2023 as the team secured a 56-25 victory. With Genoa-Hugo/Karval ahead 34-12 at the half, the contest was all but over already.
