CARTERVILLE, Ill. (Interstat) — The Mineral Area Cardinals and John A. Logan Volunteers will open their 2025-26 men’s junior college basketball seasons against each other in the Three Rivers Classic on Friday, Oct. 31.

Both teams enter the contest with 0-0 records, looking to establish a new identity after the conclusion of the 2023-24 campaign. This Halloween matchup marks the first official game for both programs in over 19 months.

Mineral Area last took the court on March 9, 2024, falling 75-71 at home to Moberly Area. John A. Logan’s most recent result was an 84-68 road loss to Vincennes on March 13, 2024.

The game kicks off a challenging early-season slate for both squads. The Cardinals will face a quick turnaround, traveling to play Gulf Coast State on Saturday. The Volunteers also play Saturday, taking on host Three Rivers.

Friday’s winner will gain immediate momentum in a non-conference test that has become a regional rivalry. The two teams are scheduled to meet again later in the season on Dec. 21 at John A. Logan.