NEWTON, Kan. (Interstat) — A key NAIA men’s basketball conference clash is set for Wednesday night as the Bethel (Kan.) Threshers host the Southwestern Moundbuilders at Thresher Gym.

The Threshers (15-4) enter with the superior overall record, but are looking to rebound from a 77-82 overtime road loss at McPherson on Jan. 25. In that game, forward Cade Kittrell posted a season-high 22 points and added seven rebounds. His recent surge, including an 11-point, five-rebound performance in a win at Ottawa on Jan. 17, makes him a player to watch for the home side.

Southwestern (11-5) rides a three-game winning streak, most recently a 78-53 road victory at Tabor on Jan. 21. The Moundbuilders are led by guard Isaac Hoberecht, who scored 21 points in that win. Over his last seven games, Hoberecht has been a consistent all-around contributor, including a near triple-double of 12 points, nine rebounds and eight assists in a Jan. 3 win at York (NE).

This matchup is a quick rematch of a thrilling season opener for both teams back on Nov. 19, 2025, when Bethel edged Southwestern 93-85 in overtime in Winfield, Kansas. The Threshers will aim to defend their home court and sweep the season series, while the Moundbuilders seek to avenge that early loss and continue their recent momentum.

Bethel’s strength has been its balance, with contributors like Dominick Harris and Carmelo Yakubu providing steady production alongside Kittrell. Southwestern counters with a versatile attack, where Hoberecht’s playmaking is complemented by forwards like Emery Eberhard, who grabbed 11 rebounds against Tabor.

Tipoff is scheduled for 8 p.m. CST Wednesday. Bethel’s next game is at home against Evangel (Mo.) on Saturday. Southwestern’s next contest is at home against York (NE) on Saturday.