Preview: Midland Visits Odessa in Key Junior College Matchup

ODESSA, Texas (Interstat) — A pivotal men’s junior college basketball matchup in Western Texas is set for Thursday when the Midland Chaparrals visit the Odessa Wranglers at the OC Sports Center.

The Chaparrals (18-4), riding a strong season, will look to complete a regular-season sweep after handily defeating the Wranglers (15-6) 82-63 at home on Jan. 12. Midland enters having lost two of its last three, including a 74-70 road loss to South Plains on Monday. Odessa has also stumbled recently, dropping its last two contests.

A key player to watch for Midland is guard Antoine Bo Hurns, who is coming off a 15-point, 4-rebound performance in the loss to South Plains. Over his last seven games, Hurns has averaged 9.7 points and 3.1 rebounds per contest, providing a consistent scoring threat.

Odessa will counter with standout guard Ahmere Carson, who has been a dynamic offensive force. Carson is averaging 19.3 points over his last six games, including a 29-point outburst in a win over Howard (Tex.) on Jan. 22 and a 23-point effort in the recent loss to South Plains.

The game features a contrast in recent momentum. Since their first meeting, Midland has gone 4-3, while Odessa has posted a 4-2 record outside of that loss. Both teams will aim to stabilize their conference standing with a crucial victory.

The Chaparrals’ offense, which has topped 80 points in nine games this season, will test a Wranglers defense that has held opponents under 70 points in three of its last five outings.

Tipoff is scheduled for 7:45 p.m. CST on Thursday, Feb. 12.

Midland’s next game is at home against Frank Phillips on Monday. Odessa will host Western Texas on Monday.