BORGER, Texas (Interstat) — A surging Howard (Texas) Hawks team, ranked among the nation’s elite in NJCAA men’s basketball, visits the Frank Phillips Plainsmen on Thursday in a conference rematch highlighting contrasting seasons.

The Hawks (18-3) enter the Borger Community Activity Center riding a five-game winning streak, including a 91-83 road victory over Midland on Monday. They previously handled Frank Phillips with ease, 69-50, in Big Spring on Jan. 5.

Howard’s strength is its balance, evidenced by three players scoring in double figures in the win at Midland. Forward Dace Pleasant posted a double-double with 19 points and 13 rebounds, while Brandon Ivery added 15 points and Daniel Culberson scored 16. Pleasant has been a consistent force, averaging 14.2 points and 6.8 rebounds over his last six contests.

The Frank Phillips Plainsmen (6-13) look to halt a four-game skid and replicate the competitive fire they showed in a narrow 79-75 overtime loss to Western Texas on Monday. That effort was fueled by a standout performance from Jerry Pepin, who scored 25 points and grabbed 11 rebounds. Pepin has been a bright spot, recording double-doubles in two of his last three games.

Despite their record, the Plainsmen have shown offensive capability, scoring 102 points in a Jan. 8 overtime win over Clarendon and pushing New Mexico to the brink in a 82-79 loss on Jan. 27. Containing Howard’s multifaceted attack and finding consistent scoring beyond Pepin will be critical for Frank Phillips to spring an upset.

Tipoff is set for Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026. The Hawks continue their road stretch at New Mexico on Feb. 12, while the Plainsmen travel to Clarendon on Feb. 9.