Wabash Valley, Shawnee Set for Rematch Wednesday

MOUNT CARMEL, Ill. (Interstat) — A tight conference race intensifies Wednesday when the Wabash Valley Warriors visit the Shawnee Saints in a men’s junior college basketball rematch.

The Warriors (10-11) edged the Saints (7-8) 61-59 in their first meeting on Jan. 14 in Mount Carmel. Wednesday’s game at Shawnee College offers the Saints a chance for home-court revenge and both teams an opportunity to climb the standings.

Wabash Valley enters with momentum from an 88-65 rout of Lincoln Trail on Saturday. The Warriors have won four of their last five games, including that narrow victory over Shawnee. Player to watch Mohamed Diaby was listed among the most productive in the recent win, though specific stats from that game were not detailed.

Shawnee is also coming off a victory, a 60-55 road win at Olney Central on Saturday. The Saints are led by forward James Deloach, who posted a double-double with 17 points and 10 rebounds in that contest. Deloach has been a consistent offensive force, scoring 31 points in a Jan. 21 win over Lake Land.

The Warriors’ recent surge has been keyed by balanced contributions. Alongside Diaby, players like Khore Furlow and Byron McNeill were highlighted for their roles in the Lincoln Trail victory. Shawnee counters with a supporting cast that includes Zaiden Green, who had 13 points, five rebounds and five assists against Olney Central.

In the January matchup, Wabash Valley’s defense managed to contain Deloach and secure a critical stop in the final moments. Replicating that defensive effort on the road will be paramount. For Shawnee, protecting home court and converting opportunities in the paint will be the focus as they seek to split the season series.

Following this game, Wabash Valley travels to Olney Central on Saturday. Shawnee hits the road for a game at Lincoln Trail the same day.