FREEPORT, Ill. (Interstat) — A surging Indian Hills men’s junior college basketball team, ranked among the nation’s elite, travels to face Highland (Ill.) in a non-conference matchup Thursday night.

The Indian Hills Warriors (15-2) bring a potent offense and a five-game winning streak into the contest, most recently a 94-71 rout of Triton on Jan. 13. Highland’s Cougars (7-9) look to rebound after a 77-67 home loss to Olive-Harvey on Saturday.

Indian Hills is led by standout guard Chaz Watson, who poured in 29 points in 27 minutes against Triton. He is supported by a balanced lineup featuring Mason Costello (12 rebounds, 6 assists) and Taj Au-Duke (10 rebounds, 8 assists) from that same victory. The Warriors’ only losses this season came on the road against Mineral Area (84-78) and Snow (80-71).

Highland has shown resilience in close games, securing narrow wins over Sauk Valley (92-91) and Richard J. Daley (86-85) earlier this month. However, consistency has been an issue, with the Cougars averaging 74.4 points per game while allowing 77.1.

The Warriors have dominated recent competition, scoring 87 or more points in seven of their 15 wins. Their defensive pressure will challenge a Highland squad that committed 17 turnovers in its last outing.

This game is the first of a home-and-home series between the programs; they are scheduled to meet again at Indian Hills on Feb. 27.

Tipoff is set for Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026, in Freeport.