Preview: Midland Chaparrals at New Mexico Military Broncos

ROSWELL, N.M. (Interstat) — The surging Midland College Chaparrals, ranked 12th nationally in NJCAA Division I, travel to face the New Mexico Military Institute Broncos in a men’s junior college basketball matchup Thursday night at Cahoon Armory Gym.

Tipoff is set for 7:30 p.m. MST.

Midland (20-4) enters on a two-game win streak following a 78-62 victory over Frank Phillips on Monday. The Chaparrals boast one of the nation’s top records but will be seeking redemption after a surprising 72-62 home loss to these same Broncos just one month ago, on Jan. 19.

A key player to watch for Midland is forward Brandon White. He is coming off a dominant performance against Frank Phillips, scoring 20 points with nine rebounds and four blocks in just 16 minutes. His recent form has been impactful, providing efficient scoring and rim protection off the bench.

New Mexico Military (10-14) looks to snap a four-game skid, most recently a 80-54 road loss to South Plains. The Broncos’ last win was a 74-71 victory over Clarendon on Feb. 12. They will rely on forward David Popa, who has been a consistent bright spot during the losing streak. Popa scored 17 points in the loss to South Plains and had 12 points and four rebounds in a close defeat to New Mexico JC on Jan. 29.

Despite the disparity in overall records, the Jan. 19 result ensures the Broncos will not be intimidated. In that game, NMMI held Midland to 62 points, well below its season average.

For Midland, balance is a strength. In Monday’s win, Darius Carr added 18 points and Cayden Reed contributed 11 points and six rebounds alongside White’s outburst. The Chaparrals’ depth will be tested in a hostile environment.

The Broncos counter with guard Demari Larkins, who dished out seven assists in the last outing, and forward Mickael Heritiana.

Following this game, Midland hosts New Mexico JC on Feb. 23. New Mexico Military travels to face Frank Phillips on the same date.