High-Flying Bethel Set for Clash with Ottawa in NAIA Showdown

OTTAWA, Kan. (Interstat) — A surging Bethel (Kan.) squad, ranked among the NAIA’s best, will put its six-game winning streak on the line against a streaky Ottawa (Kan.) team when the Threshers visit the Braves on Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026.

The Threshers (14-2) have been dominant, averaging 78.6 points per game during their current run. They are coming off a 93-58 rout of Tabor on Wednesday, where their depth was on full display. Bethel’s engine is versatile forward Carmelo Yakubu, who is averaging 14.2 points, 6.2 rebounds and 3.0 assists over his last five contests. In the win over Tabor, he scored 18 points in just 20 minutes.

Ottawa (8-8) has alternated wins and losses in its last five games, showcasing potent offense but inconsistent results. The Braves fell 90-81 at Oklahoma Wesleyan on Wednesday despite a 20-point outburst from guard Rich Martelly in only 18 minutes. Martelly has provided a scoring punch, averaging 12.2 points over his last four appearances.

The Braves will need that offensive firepower to counter a balanced Bethel attack. Alongside Yakubu, contributors like Rustan Griffen (13 points vs. Tabor) and Brayden Schilling (8 points, 6 rebounds, 2 blocks) make the Threshers a multifaceted challenge.

Ottawa has shown it can win at home, most recently an 85-80 victory over Tabor on Jan. 10. Protecting their court will be crucial against a Bethel team whose only two losses this season came by a combined six points.

Historically, this matchup has been a tight conference affair. The Threshers’ current form suggests they are the favorites, but the Braves’ capability for high-scoring performances, led by Martelly, ensures they are a live underdog at home.

Saturday’s contest will be a key test for Ottawa’s hopes of climbing the conference standings and a chance for Bethel to solidify its position as a national contender.