OTTUMWA, Iowa (Interstat) — The Indian Hills Warriors and Cloud County Thunderbirds will open their seasons Saturday when they meet in the Meridian Credit Union Classic.

The game, a men’s junior college basketball contest, is the first official action for both teams since the 2023-24 season. Indian Hills last played on March 28, 2024, falling 93-78 at Barton. Cloud County’s last result was a 0-0 mark against Central on Oct. 25, 2024, reflecting a canceled or non-traditional contest.

With both teams holding 0-0 records, the matchup offers a clean slate. According to the Interstat ELO system, the Warriors enter as favorites with a 64% probability to win.

The game will be the first of a challenging opening stretch for both squads. Indian Hills will travel to face Dodge City on Tuesday, Nov. 4. Cloud County begins its home schedule on Friday, Nov. 7, against State Fair.

Tip-off is set for Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025.