Preview: Struggling Waldorf Warriors Face Doane Tigers in NAIA Matchup

CRETE, Neb. (Interstat) — The Doane Tigers look to build on an overtime road victory when they host the struggling Waldorf Warriors in an NAIA men’s basketball game Saturday at the Haddix Center.

Doane (6-7) is coming off a 73-66 overtime win at Dakota Wesleyan on Wednesday. Jack Wilson led the Tigers with 20 points and nine rebounds in a 43-minute effort. The forward has been a consistent interior presence, averaging 11.3 points, 5.5 rebounds and 2.3 blocks over his last four games.

Waldorf (1-12) seeks to halt a two-game skid following a 91-80 home loss to Hastings on Wednesday. The Warriors have lost 10 of their last 11, with their lone win a 76-68 victory over Bellevue on Dec. 19.

Warriors guard Conner Aldridge enters as the team’s primary offensive threat, averaging 19.5 points over his last four contests. He scored 23 points in the loss to Hastings. Krys Watley (17 points, six rebounds) and Cartier Parr (10 points, four assists) also provided production in that game.

Doane has shown resilience at home this season, including a notable 79-77 win over then-Dordt on Dec. 6. The Tigers will aim to exploit a Waldorf defense that has allowed an average of 90.2 points per game during its current 1-10 stretch.

The Warriors’ defense will be tested by a balanced Doane attack. Alongside Wilson, Jonan Claussen (16 points vs. Dakota Wesleyan) and Justus Gardiner (18 points) are coming off strong performances.

This contest begins a key three-game homestand for Doane. Waldorf continues a difficult stretch of road games, having played eight of its first 13 away from home.

Tipoff is set for Saturday afternoon in Crete.