Preview: Valley Suns at Sioux Falls Skyforce

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (Interstat) — The Sioux Falls Skyforce, holding a winning record and seeking consistency, will host the struggling Valley Suns in a G League matchup at the Sanford Pentagon on Friday.

The Skyforce (19-17) have split their last six games but remain above .500, powered recently by the high-scoring guard Trevor Keels. Keels is averaging 27.3 points over his last three contests, including a 38-point outburst in an overtime loss to Oklahoma City on Feb. 9. He will be the primary offensive focus for a Sioux Falls team that has shown both explosive potential, scoring 134 points in a win over Maine on Feb. 6, and defensive lapses in close losses.

Valley (10-24) enters having won two of its last three, including a 123-120 victory over Salt Lake City on Feb. 12. The Suns will rely on center C.J. Huntley, who is coming off a 22-point, 14-rebound performance in that win. Huntley has recorded four double-doubles in his last nine games and provides a consistent interior presence for a team that ranks near the bottom of the league standings.

In their last outing, the Suns’ backcourt of Damion Baugh (21 points, 12 assists) and Koby Brea (17 points, nine rebounds) provided crucial support alongside Huntley. Replicating that balanced effort will be key against a Sioux Falls squad that features additional weapons like Josh Christopher and Keshad Johnson, who combined for 38 points and 17 rebounds in the team’s most recent game.

The game marks the first of a quick home-and-home set between the teams, who will meet again at the Pentagon on Sunday. For Sioux Falls, it’s a chance to solidify its playoff positioning, while Valley aims to build momentum from its rare recent successes and climb out of the cellar.

Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. local time Friday.