WEST BURLINGTON, Iowa (Interstat) — A clash of Iowa junior college men’s basketball programs with contrasting trajectories is set for Saturday when the No. 3-ranked Indian Hills Warriors visit the Southeastern Blackhawks.

The Warriors (13-2) enter as one of the nation’s elite, their only losses coming on the road against Snow (Utah) and Mineral Area (Mo.). They are powered by a deep and balanced attack, coming off a tight 65-63 win over North Idaho on Dec. 19. In that victory, Taj Au-Duke posted 13 points and six assists, while Chiang Ring anchored the defense with nine rebounds and two blocks.

Indian Hills has showcased explosive offense, including a 125-point performance in early December, and has won nine of its last ten.

Southeastern (7-5) seeks a statement win to solidify its season. The Blackhawks have been inconsistent but are riding a two-game win streak, most recently an 82-55 road victory at Highland (Ill.) on Dec. 13. In that game, Fallou Dioum neared a double-double with 11 points and nine rebounds, adding three blocks.

The Blackhawks’ schedule has been challenging, with losses to strong opponents like Moberly Area and Sauk Valley. Their defense, which held Highland and Kankakee to 55 and 52 points respectively, will be tested by Indian Hills’ high-powered system.

This matchup is the first of a home-and-home series between the Region XI foes, with the rematch scheduled for Feb. 14 in Ottumwa. For Southeastern, protecting its home court at Loren Walker Arena is crucial to gain an early upper hand in the regional standings. For Indian Hills, the game is an opportunity to affirm its national ranking and continue its dominant run.

Tip-off is scheduled for 3 p.m. on Jan. 10.