Preview: Miles Pioneers vs. Northwest Trappers

POWELL, Wyo. (Interstat) — The Miles Pioneers will look to snap a five-game skid and avenge an early-season loss when they face the Northwest Trappers in a men’s junior college basketball game Saturday at the Booster Club Tournament.

The Pioneers (3-7) enter on the heels of a 79-65 road loss to Central Wyoming on Friday. Northwest (3-3) last played on Dec. 6, earning a 69-56 home victory over Otero.

This matchup is a quick rematch of a Nov. 7 game in which the visiting Trappers defeated Miles 81-70. The Pioneers have not won since Nov. 28.

A key focus for Miles will be slowing Northwest guard Mateo Trujillo, who is averaging 14.8 points, 4.3 rebounds and 4.5 assists per game. He had 21 points, eight rebounds and seven assists in a win over Williston State on Nov. 22.

The Pioneers will counter with high-scoring guard Azenio Cossa, who has been a bright spot during the losing streak. He is averaging 26.4 points over his last five games, including a 29-point, 10-rebound performance against Western Nebraska on Nov. 24. In Friday’s loss, Cossa scored 26 points in 38 minutes.

Miles has struggled defensively, allowing an average of 84.2 points during its five-game slide. Northwest has been inconsistent offensively, scoring 67 points or fewer in three of its losses but averaging 81.5 points in its wins.

The Trappers’ tournament opener begins a demanding four-game road trip through Wyoming and Arizona. Miles continues tournament play seeking a turnaround before its holiday break.

Tip-off is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 13, at the Booster Club Tournament site.