Preview: Laramie County at Casper, Men’s Junior College Basketball

CASPER, Wyo. (Interstat) — Two Wyoming junior college men’s basketball teams seeking momentum will meet Saturday when the Laramie County Golden Eagles visit the Casper Thunderbirds.

The Golden Eagles (7-8) enter on a modest upswing, having won two of their last three games, including a 78-60 road victory at Otero on Jan. 10. The Thunderbirds (5-12) look to halt a four-game skid, most recently a 76-64 loss at Central Wyoming on Wednesday.

Laramie County will lean on forward TJ Coulter, who has been dominant in conference play. Coulter is averaging 27.5 points and 6.5 rebounds over his last two outings, including a 30-point, 7-rebound performance in the win over Otero. Support comes from Brevin Phillips (17 points, 9 rebounds vs. Otero) and Karim Elgizawy, who dished seven assists in that contest.

Casper’s hopes rest on guard Zaire Richardson, who led the team with 15 points, six rebounds and four assists against Central Wyoming. His backcourt mate, Aaron Sievert, added 15 points and five assists. The Thunderbirds showed offensive firepower in a 127-121 double-overtime loss at Northeastern (Colo.) on Jan. 8, but consistency has been an issue.

Historically, the teams have split recent meetings, setting the stage for a competitive matchup. The Golden Eagles have shown a stronger offensive output in recent weeks, while the Thunderbirds will aim to leverage home court advantage at Swede Erickson Thunderbird Gymnasium.

The game is a key early conference fixture for both squads. Laramie County aims to climb above .500, while Casper looks to spark a turnaround. The teams will meet again in Cheyenne on Feb. 4.

Tip-off is scheduled for 4 p.m. MST on Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026.