Preview: Skyforce, Wolves Meet in Key G League Showdown

DES MOINES, Iowa (Interstat) — Two teams jockeying for position in the G League’s Western Conference will clash Saturday when the Sioux Falls Skyforce visit the Iowa Wolves at Wells Fargo Arena.

Both teams enter the contest with identical 11-8 records, adding stakes to the first meeting between the clubs since a split of a two-game series in Sioux Falls in early December. The Skyforce won 133-121 on Dec. 6 before the Wolves responded with a 115-110 victory on Dec. 7.

The spotlight will be on the backcourt, featuring two of the league’s most dynamic performers. Sioux Falls guard Josh Christopher is coming off a near triple-double in a 121-114 win over Rio Grande Valley on Wednesday, posting 26 points, nine rebounds and eight assists. Over his last five games, Christopher is averaging 24.2 points, 8.8 rebounds and 6.4 assists, showcasing his all-around game.

Iowa will counter with guard Tristen Newton, who is on a prolific scoring run. Newton poured in 30 points, eight rebounds and five assists in a narrow 119-118 loss at Delaware on Wednesday. In his last three outings, he has averaged 26.7 points and 7.0 assists. Newton was instrumental in the Wolves’ Dec. 7 win in Sioux Falls, finishing with 25 points, seven rebounds and seven assists.

The teams have shown offensive firepower but inconsistent results recently. The Skyforce have won three of their last five, while the Wolves have dropped two of their last three, with both losses coming by a single point.

For Sioux Falls, support for Christopher has come from Jahmir Young, who had 24 points and 10 assists Wednesday, and center Dain Dainja. Iowa’s Alize Johnson provides a major presence inside, recording a triple-double of 12 points, 15 rebounds and 11 assists in the last game.

Saturday’s matchup is the first of a quick home-and-home set, with the teams scheduled to meet again in Des Moines on Sunday.