Preview: Copiah-Lincoln Wolves at Itawamba Indians

FULTON, Miss. (Interstat) — A pair of Mississippi junior college men’s basketball teams trending in opposite directions will meet Thursday when the Copiah-Lincoln Wolves visit the Itawamba Indians.

The Wolves (6-4) enter on a three-game winning streak, including a dramatic 69-68 road victory over East Mississippi last Thursday. Meanwhile, the Indians (9-6) have seen their form fluctuate, following a 102-71 rout of East Mississippi on Jan. 8 with an 82-72 loss at Coahoma, before regrouping for an 89-76 home win over Northeast Mississippi last Thursday.

Copiah-Lincoln will rely on forward Tyrell Bowles, who is coming off a double-double performance of 19 points and 11 rebounds in just 22 minutes in a win over Mississippi Delta on Jan. 12. His interior presence will be critical against an Itawamba squad that features its own double-double threat in Kyler Fox. Fox posted 12 points and 12 rebounds in the Indians’ most recent victory.

The Wolves have found success in close games, with their last two wins coming by a combined three points. Itawamba has shown a higher offensive ceiling, scoring 89 or more points in three of its last five contests, but has been less consistent defensively.

Historically, this matchup has been a tight one. The teams split their two meetings last season, with each winning on its home floor.

For Copiah-Lincoln, continuing its momentum on the road is key as it seeks to climb above .500 in conference play. For Itawamba, protecting its home court is paramount to maintaining a winning record and building consistency as the season’s second half begins.

Tip-off is set for Thursday night at the Davis Event Center. The game will not be televised.

Following this contest, Copiah-Lincoln will host Coahoma on Monday, Jan. 26. Itawamba hits the road to face Pearl River on the same date.