Preview: Cameron County Raiders vs. Smethport Hubbers
Cameron County is on a four-game streak of home losses (dating back to last season), Smethport a seven-game streak of away losses (dating back to last season), but someone's luck is about to change. The Cameron County Raiders will be home for the holidays to greet the Smethport Hubbers at 6:00 p.m. on Monday. Given that the pair suffered a loss in their last game, they both have a little extra motivation heading into this contest.
Last Friday, Cameron County came up short against Otto-Eldred and fell 41-28. The defeat unfortunately continues a disappointing trend for Cameron County in their matchups with Otto-Eldred: they've now lost six in a row.
Despite their loss, Cameron County saw several players rise to the challenge and make noteworthy plays. Elsie Bresslin, who scored six points along with eight rebounds, was perhaps the best of all. That's the first time this season that Bresslin pulled down eight or more rebounds. The team also got some help courtesy of Trinity Earle, who scored four points along with seven rebounds.
Meanwhile, Smethport's game last Thursday was all tied up 21-21 at the half, but sadly for them it didn't stay that way. They took a 47-37 hit to the loss column at the hands of Port Allegany. While losing is never fun, Smethport can't take it too hard given the team's big disadvantage in MaxPreps' Pennsylvania basketball rankings (they are ranked 411th, while Port Allegany is ranked 176th).
Despite the loss, Smethport saw an underclassman step up: Payton Neff scored 17 points along with five rebounds. That's the first time this season that Neff scored 15 or more points. Ava Gifford was another key contributor, scoring nine points.
Cameron County's loss dropped their record down to 1-3. As for Smethport, their loss dropped their record down to 1-4.
This contest is one where the number of possessions is likely to be a big factor: Cameron County have been smashing the glass this season, having only averaged 29.2 rebounds per game. However, it's not like Smethport struggles in that department as they've been averaging only 35.6 rebounds per game. Given these competing strengths, it'll be interesting to see how their clash plays out.
Cameron County was able to grind out a solid win over Smethport in their previous matchup back in January, winning 43-31. Will Cameron County repeat their success, or does Smethport have a new game plan this time around? We'll find out soon enough.
