GILLETTE, Wyo. (Interstat) — The Gillette College Pronghorns look to build on their first victory of 2026 when they host the struggling Western Nebraska Community College Cougars in a men’s junior college basketball matchup on Thursday, Jan. 8.

Gillette (6-6) evened its record with a 79-69 road win over Lake Region State on Jan. 2. The Pronghorns will rely on forward Rashad McCormick, who powered that victory with 23 points and seven rebounds in 35 minutes. McCormick has been a consistent offensive threat, scoring 22 points in a loss to Indian Hills on Dec. 18.

Western Nebraska (3-10) enters on a five-game losing streak and has not played since a 87-72 home loss to Utah State Eastern on Dec. 13. The Cougars showed some fight in that contest, led by Viktor Lukic-Gavric’s 17 points and nine rebounds. Guard Amare Jackson added six assists.

The Cougars’ defense will be tested, having allowed an average of 99.2 points during their current skid. Their last win came on Nov. 25, a 87-78 victory over Eastern Wyoming.

For Gillette, consistency is key. Following the win over Lake Region State, they had dropped their two previous games at the Salt Lake C.C. Classic by wide margins. Protecting home court will be a priority as they begin a stretch with four of their next five games on the road after Thursday.

This contest is the only scheduled meeting between the two programs this season. For Western Nebraska, it begins a crucial three-game homestand after this trip. Gillette next travels to face Western Wyoming on Jan. 14.

Tip-off is set for Thursday night at the Pronghorn Center.