Preview: Richard J Daley at Highland (Ill.)

FREEPORT, Ill. (Interstat) — The Highland (Ill.) Cougars will look to halt a two-game skid when they host the winless Richard J Daley Bulldogs in a men’s junior college basketball matchup Saturday.

The game is a rematch from Nov. 18, when Highland (5-8) secured a 66-57 road victory over Daley. The Bulldogs (0-9) enter still searching for their first win of the season across all competitions.

Highland’s record has been inconsistent, but it has shown an ability to defend its home court, posting a 3-2 mark in its own gym. The Cougars are coming off a 90-71 road loss to Triton on Wednesday. Prior to that, they fell 82-55 at home to Southeastern on Dec. 13.

Richard J Daley’s struggles have been pronounced, with its last outing a 83-72 home loss to Kennedy-King on Dec. 13. The Bulldogs have lost their nine games by an average margin of 16.2 points. Their closest contest was a three-point overtime defeat to Southeastern on Nov. 15. In the first meeting with Highland, Daley kept it within single digits, a margin it will aim to build upon.

The Cougars’ offense will likely look to exploit a Daley defense that has allowed 78.2 points per game. Highland guard play, which helped produce 80 points in a win over Kennedy-King earlier this season, could be a key factor.

For the Bulldogs, finding consistent scoring beyond their 68.2 points per game average is critical. They have been held under 60 points in four games this season.

This contest opens a crucial January stretch for both teams. Highland will play three of its next four at home, while Daley continues a difficult search for momentum before returning home next week.

Saturday’s tipoff is set for 3 p.m. Central at the Highland gymnasium.