Preview: Eastern Arizona Gila Monsters at Colorado Northwestern Spartans

RANGELY, Colo. (Interstat) — A men’s junior college basketball matchup featuring teams on opposite trajectories is set for Saturday when the Eastern Arizona Gila Monsters visit the Colorado Northwestern Spartans.

Eastern Arizona (6-3) enters on a five-game winning streak, last defeating Hagerstown 65-22 on Nov. 22. The Gila Monsters have found their rhythm offensively, averaging 79.2 points during the streak.

A key catalyst has been forward Brad Ballinger, who is coming off a triple-double performance with 12 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists against Hagerstown. Over the last three games, Ballinger has averaged 11.3 points and 8.0 rebounds, providing consistent production in the frontcourt.

Colorado Northwestern (2-7) looks to halt a four-game skid, most recently an 101-80 home loss to Odessa on Friday. Despite the team’s struggles, guard Carter Killian has been a bright spot. He is coming off a strong all-around game with 17 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists against Odessa and scored 31 points in a loss to Central Wyoming on Nov. 21.

The Spartans’ defense will be tested, having allowed an average of 88.6 points in their seven losses. Containing Ballinger and the balanced Eastern Arizona attack, which saw three players score in double figures in its last outing, will be a primary challenge.

Interstat’s game simulator projects a high-scoring affair, predicting a 100-100 final score.

Saturday’s contest is the final game for both teams before a break for final exams. Eastern Arizona next plays Southern Idaho on Dec. 15. Colorado Northwestern travels to face Central Arizona on Dec. 12.

Tip-off is scheduled for Saturday afternoon at Hefley Gymnasium.