Preview: Cowley Tigers at Coffeyville Ravens

COFFEYVILLE, Kan. (Interstat) — Two men’s junior college basketball teams with identical conference aspirations but diverging recent paths will meet Wednesday when the Cowley College Tigers visit the Coffeyville Community College Ravens.

Both teams enter the Feb. 4 matchup with 12-win overall records, though Cowley (12-7) holds a slight edge in winning percentage over Coffeyville (12-8). The Tigers have won three straight, including a convincing 83-66 home victory over Colby on Saturday. The Ravens, meanwhile, seek to halt a three-game skid, most recently an 89-66 road loss at Barton on Jan. 31.

The contest is a rematch of a Dec. 3 meeting, which Cowley dominated 96-76 at home. The Tigers will look to replicate that performance and complete a regular-season sweep.

A key player to watch for Cowley is Leslie Owens Jr., who provides consistent all-around production. Over his last seven games, Owens is averaging 12.1 points, 3.6 rebounds and 2.3 assists. He logged 33 minutes with 11 points, seven rebounds and a block in the win over Colby.

Coffeyville counters with forward Daniel Ntambwe, who has been a bright spot during the team’s slump. He is coming off a standout 26-point, 10-rebound double-double in the loss to Barton, showcasing his ability to carry the offensive load.

Cowley’s recent success has been fueled by balanced scoring. In the win over Colby, Roman Miller scored 16 points and Aven Mboule added 15 to complement Owens. The Tigers have scored at least 83 points in each game during their three-win streak.

Coffeyville’s defense, which allowed an average of 86.7 points during its three consecutive losses, will be tested. The Ravens must find an answer for Cowley’s offensive rhythm while reigniting their own, which sputtered in a 67-point outing at Independence on Jan. 26.

Following this game, Cowley will host Hutchinson on Feb. 7. Coffeyville travels to face Dodge City on the same date.

Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m. at Nellis Hall.