Hauser’s Stryker Gill looks for an open teammate against Brown County Nov. 26, 2024 at Hauser.
Paige Grider | For The Republic
Thursday will mark just over five years since the Hauser and Columbus North boys basketball teams last met on the court in boys basketball.
On paper, the matchup has the potential to be an instant classic. The Jets and Bull Dogs tip off at around 7:30 p.m. at Hauser.
Once again, Hauser is off to a fast start, beginning the season 8-1, with the only blemish being a road loss to Class 2A No. 6 South Ripley, which is 11-0. The Jets are ranked No. 7 in Class A in this week’s Associated Press poll.
When breaking down the matchup, the game has the makings to be close. According to the Jeff Sagarin Rating, Hauser is two-point favorite over North, but the Sagarin says the Bull Dogs (7-3) have played a tougher schedule to start the season.
Columbus North’s Nate Enneking drives to the basket against Martinsville’s AJ Reynolds Dec. 7, 2024 at Columbus North.
Tommy Walker | For The Republic
North is ranked 65th in strength of schedule, compared to 238th for the Jets, but the differences in class also plays a role. In Sagarin’s overall state ranking, Hauser is ranked 60th and the Bull Dogs are 72nd.
The Jets will give the Bull Dogs a much proven test to see how they fare with one of the top teams in Class A.
“Hauser has been impressive so far. They’re playing really well and having a great season,” North coach Paul Ferguson said. “Trent (Moorhead) has done a great job with the team. He’s really pulled them together and playing at a very high level.”
Aside from South Ripley, this likely is the toughest test for Hauser so far in the season. While the AP poll has them ranked seventh the week, Sagarin has the Jets rated second.
“Experience plays a big factor, and we’ve got guys that have been playing together for a lot of years now,” Moorhead said. “They’ve been in some big environments, so it will be another game. You can’t put too much emphasis on what’s going on outside the court. We have to keep the main thing the main thing, and that is playing team-connected basketball Thursday night against Columbus North.”
The atmosphere also could play a factor in the matchup. It likely will be at full capacity or possibly standing-room-only.
“I think it’s a great game for the community. I think a lot of people in Bartholomew County will be out for the game,” Ferguson said. “It’s going to be a big crowd. All the players from Columbus North and Hauser love to play in front of big crowds. Kids will be excited, coaches will be locked in, the fans, the gym will be rockin,’ so it will be a good night.”
“I’m certainly excited for the matchup,” Moorhead added. “I know it should be a great crowd here, and we’re excited to test ourselves against a great opponent on Thursday.”
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