Preview: Northern Oklahoma-Tonkawa Mavericks at Redlands Cougars

EL RENO, Okla. (Interstat) — A men’s junior college basketball rematch with regional implications is set for Monday, Feb. 23, 2026, as the Northern Oklahoma-Tonkawa Mavericks visit the Redlands Cougars.

The Mavericks (8-11) will look to complete a regular-season sweep after defeating the Cougars (6-9) 84-77 at home on Jan. 22. Both teams enter the contest seeking consistency in the final stretch of the season.

Northern Oklahoma-Tonkawa arrives following a narrow 88-87 home loss to Northern Oklahoma-Enid on Thursday. The Mavericks’ recent form has been uneven, with a 3-3 record in their last six games. Their success often hinges on the play of guard MJ Miller, who is coming off a stellar 21-point, 11-assist performance in a loss at Seminole State on Feb. 16.

Redlands, however, carries momentum from a 75-67 road victory at Western Oklahoma State on Thursday. The Cougars have shown flashes, including a win over Eastern Oklahoma State on Feb. 9, and will lean on versatile forward Cristian McElveen. McElveen has been a standout, averaging 21 points, 6.7 rebounds and 4.7 assists over his last three contests. He recorded a triple-double with 19 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists against Connors State on Feb. 5.

The January meeting between these teams was a high-scoring affair, suggesting another potentially fast-paced game. The Mavericks will aim to leverage their previous success against Redlands, while the Cougars, playing at home, will seek to even the series and improve their positioning.

After this game, Northern Oklahoma-Tonkawa hosts Connors State on Thursday, Feb. 26. Redlands travels to face Seminole State (Okla.) on the same date.

Tipoff is scheduled for Monday night at Redlands Community College.