NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (Interstat) — A key Region IX rematch is set for Saturday when the North Platte Knights host the Lamar Runnin’ Lopes in a men’s junior college basketball game.

The Knights (11-8) will look to avenge a decisive 84-67 road loss to Lamar on Jan. 24 and protect their home court. North Platte has dropped two of its last three, including a narrow 77-74 defeat at Southeast on Wednesday. Brady Kennison leads the Knights, averaging 20.6 points over his last five games. He scored 18 in the first meeting with Lamar.

The Runnin’ Lopes (8-13) have struggled for consistency but have shown flashes, including their 17-point win over North Platte last month. They are coming off a 101-90 road loss to McCook on Wednesday. Guard Christian Payawal, who had 5 points and 4 assists in the January win over the Knights, is a catalyst when he sees extended minutes. In Lamar’s three wins prior to its recent skid, Payawal averaged 12.7 points and 6.7 assists.

North Platte holds the overall season advantage, but Lamar’s dominant performance in the previous head-to-head matchup ensures this contest carries significant weight for regional standings. The Knights will aim to leverage their superior record and home-court advantage, while Lamar seeks to replicate its prior success and build momentum for the final stretch of the season.

Tipoff is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, at North Platte Community College.