Preview: Moberly Area Seeks Season Sweep Against Missouri State-West Plains

MOBERLY, Mo. (Interstat) — The Moberly Area Greyhounds will look to maintain their dominance over the Missouri State-West Plains Grizzlies when the men’s junior college basketball teams meet for a third time this season on Saturday, Feb. 14.

Moberly Area (15-4) has handily won both prior matchups, including a 102-80 road victory on Jan. 28. The Greyhounds also won 90-60 at home on Jan. 10. They enter Saturday’s contest having won three of their last four games, though they are coming off a 71-64 road loss to Three Rivers on Wednesday.

The Greyhounds have been led by a balanced attack, with guard Caleb Estes serving as a key facilitator. Estes has been a steady presence in the lineup, starting in recent contests against State Fair and Mineral Area.

Conversely, Missouri State-West Plains (3-14) is mired in a prolonged slump, having lost 12 of its last 13 games. The Grizzlies fell 84-72 at home to Three Rivers in their most recent outing on Feb. 7.

The primary bright spot for the Grizzlies has been forward Javon Barbee. He is coming off a strong 16-point, five-rebound performance in a loss at Mineral Area on Feb. 4 and recorded a double-double with 11 points and 12 rebounds against State Fair on Jan. 31. Containing Barbee will be a focal point for the Moberly Area defense.

The stark contrast in records underscores the challenge for the visiting Grizzlies. Moberly Area has established itself as one of the region’s top teams, while Missouri State-West Plains has struggled to find consistent footing.

Saturday’s Valentine’s Day matchup tips off at 7 p.m. Central Time at the Moberly Area Community College campus. Following this game, Moberly Area will travel to face Southeastern next Saturday, while Missouri State-West Plains will host State Fair.