Smithfield and Lafayette are an even 5-5 against one another since January of 2018, but not for long. The Smithfield Packers' homestand continues as they prepare to take on the Lafayette Rams at 7:00 p.m. on January 18th. Given that both teams suffered a loss in their last game, they both have a little extra motivation heading into this matchup.
Smithfield suffered their biggest loss yet this season on Thursday. They were dealt a 79-25 defeat at the hands of Grafton. While losing is never fun, Smithfield can't take it too hard given the team's big disadvantage in MaxPreps' Virginia basketball rankings (they are ranked 334th, while Grafton is ranked 58th).
Lafayette suffered their closest loss yet this season on Tuesday. They fell just short of Warhill by a score of 56-54. Lafayette has struggled against Warhill recently, as their contest on Tuesday was their third consecutive lost matchup.
Despite their loss, Lafayette saw several players rise to the challenge and make noteworthy plays. Dynasti Pierce, who scored 13 points along with six rebounds and three steals, was perhaps the best of all. Another player making a difference was Kenzie Charity, who scored 14 points along with seven rebounds.
Smithfield's defeat dropped their record down to 2-9. As for Lafayette, they bumped their record down to 6-7 with that defeat, which was their third straight on the road.
Smithfield came up short against Lafayette when the teams last played back in December of 2023, falling 38-27. Will Smithfield have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check back here after the action for a full breakdown and analysis of the contest.
