GOLDEN - Golden boys’ basketball is starting to come to a realization.

The Demons (4-4) are starting to realize that they have the goods to be one of the best teams in 4A Jeffco as they prepare for league play.

But if they want to take that next step it starts with improvement in their late game execution. All four of Golden’s losses have come down to the last few possessions and three of those losses were by single digits.

“We are hoping to have a really successful season and a strong second half. We are all trying to improve individually and as well as a team,” Golden freshman Ryan Blodgett said. “We all want to play well for our seniors.”

One of those seniors is Austin Richard who is averaging 20 points per game, as well as seven assists.

But Golden is not a one trick pony. The Demons feature one of the deepest teams in their league, and they have eight different players averaging at least six points per game this season.

That depth will be tested on Friday when Golden travels to D’Evelyn (8-1), one of the best teams in the state.

LOOKING TO SHAKE STRUGGLES

Wheat Ridge and Arvada are two struggling programs looking to get right against each other when the Farmers host the Bulldogs Friday at 7 p.m.

Arvada (1-7) has had problems with injuries, as well as eligibility, through the early part of the season. But head coach Tom Baker said his team is finally ready to make their push as league play approaches.

Wheat Ridge (1-7) has played better than their record indicates, but moral victories don’t matter. If the Farmers can execute better down the stretch in games and limit turnovers, they will start to turn close losses into good wins.

JAGS GET GOLDEN AFTER LOSS

D’Evelyn boys’ basketball looks to shake off their first loss of the season when they host Golden Friday at 7 p.m.

The Jaguars (8-1) are coming off a dramatic 79-77 loss to Valor on Saturday, but they have no time to sulk because Golden (4-4) is also looking to get right coming off two losses themselves.

Still one of the best teams in all of 4A, D’Evelyn has developed into a juggernaut this season. The Jaguars are averaging 80 points per game, and senior Luke Stratman is one of the best scorers in the state averaging nearly 30 points per game.

Golden is more reliant on solid team play when they are playing at their best. They have three double-digit scorers who all chip in, including senior Austin Richard and his 20 point per game average.

Friday’s meeting will be a statement game for both programs.