SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. (Interstat) — The North Platte Knights look to continue their climb above .500 when they visit the struggling Western Nebraska Cougars in a men’s junior college basketball matchup Sunday at Cougar Palace.

North Platte (10-7) enters on a positive note, having edged Northeastern (Colo.) 64-60 on Wednesday. The Knights have won four of their last five games, showing improved form in the new year.

Western Nebraska (6-16) snapped a six-game skid with an 87-76 road win at McCook on Wednesday. The victory offered a respite in what has been a difficult season for the Cougars.

A key matchup will feature two recent standouts. North Platte forward Josh Osayanrhion is averaging a double-double over his last four contests, including a 15-point, 9-rebound performance in the win over Northeastern. His activity on the glass will be critical for the Knights.

The Cougars counter with guard Viktor Lukic-Gavric, who erupted for a season-high 27 points, seven rebounds and four assists in the win at McCook. His scoring punch is essential for a Western Nebraska team that has lost several close games, including four defeats by five points or fewer since Jan. 10.

North Platte’s balance was evident in its last outing, with Brady Kennison adding 16 points and Winston Allen contributing nine points and five rebounds. Western Nebraska’s win at McCook also saw significant contributions from Amare Jackson (12 points, five rebounds, five assists) and Toms Linis (nine points, five rebounds).

The Knights won the first meeting between the teams this season, 85-81, at McCook on Jan. 10, though Osayanrhion was limited to one minute in that contest. The teams will meet again in North Platte on Feb. 21.

Sunday’s game tips off a pivotal February stretch for both squads as they jockey for position in the region standings.