NEWTON, Kan. (Interstat) — A surging Bethel (Kan.) squad will look to sweep the season series when it hosts a struggling Ottawa team in a men’s NAIA basketball matchup on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026, at Thresher Gym.

The Threshers (18-6) enter on a strong note, having won five of their last seven games, including a 68-64 road victory over Kansas Wesleyan on Wednesday. They previously defeated the Braves 76-66 in Ottawa on Jan. 17. Bethel is led by guard Trenton Patterson, who is coming off a 23-point, 7-rebound performance against Kansas Wesleyan. Patterson scored 18 points in the first meeting with Ottawa this season.

Conversely, the Ottawa Braves (9-15) are mired in a six-game losing streak, most recently suffering an 80-49 defeat to Oklahoma Wesleyan on Wednesday. During the skid, guard Landyn Tyler has been a consistent bright spot, averaging 15.1 points per game. He scored 10 points in the January loss to Bethel.

The game will feature a stark contrast in momentum. Bethel has maintained a winning record in conference play and remains in contention near the top of the standings, relying on a balanced attack that saw three players score in double figures in their last outing. Ottawa, seeking to snap its prolonged slump, will need a significant defensive effort to contain Patterson and the Threshers’ offense, which put up 90 points in a win over Evangel (Mo.) just two weeks ago.

Saturday’s contest is the final regular-season meeting between the programs this year. Following this game, Bethel will travel to face Tabor on Wednesday, while Ottawa will visit Saint Mary.