PRATT, Kan. (Interstat) — A surging Hutchinson men’s junior college basketball team looks to continue its climb when it visits struggling Pratt in a conference matchup Wednesday night.

The Hutchinson Community College Blue Dragons (8-6) have won two of their last three, including a decisive 93-77 home victory over Coffeyville on Jan. 7. The Pratt Community College Beavers (1-12) are seeking consistency, coming off a hard-fought 87-80 overtime loss to the same Coffeyville team on Jan. 10.

Hutchinson’s recent form shows a team finding its footing, with wins in three of its last five contests. The Blue Dragons will rely on forward Markus Leichner, who contributed 4 points, 3 rebounds and 2 blocks in the win over Coffeyville. Support came from Kaia Smith (5 rebounds, 3 blocks) and Bobby Cannon (5 assists).

The Beavers’ season has been defined by narrow defeats, with five of their 12 losses coming by single digits. Their lone win was a 71-67 road victory at Colby on Jan. 7. Guard Hunter Vaughn has been a bright spot, erupting for 31 points and 6 assists in the overtime loss to Coffeyville. He followed a 22-point effort in the win at Colby, establishing himself as a dynamic scoring threat.

The matchup pits Hutchinson’s balanced attack against Pratt’s reliance on Vaughn’s offensive outbursts. The Blue Dragons will aim to control the tempo and exploit their winning record, while the Beavers hope to leverage their home court and Vaughn’s hot hand to spring an upset.

Following this game, Hutchinson hosts Fort Hays Tech on Jan. 17. Pratt travels to face Fort Hays Tech on Jan. 21.

Tipoff is set for Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026, at the Beaver Dome.