Preview: Butler (Kan.) at Dodge City in Key JUCO Matchup

DODGE CITY, Kan. (Interstat) — A pivotal men’s junior college basketball matchup with postseason implications is set for Wednesday when the Butler (Kan.) Grizzly Bears visit the Dodge City Conquistadors.

Both teams enter The Dome with identical 19-win records, though Butler holds a slight edge in winning percentage at 19-8. Dodge City stands at 19-10. The contest is a rematch of a Jan. 10 overtime thriller, which Butler won 121-119 at home.

The Grizzly Bears are riding momentum from a 106-94 road victory over Cowley on Saturday. Jaise Combs, a key player to watch for Butler, contributed 11 points, eight rebounds and three assists in that win. Over his last eight games, Combs has averaged 12.4 points and 5.1 rebounds, showcasing consistent all-around play.

Dodge City looks to rebound from a narrow 107-102 road loss to Garden City on Saturday, despite a standout 24-point, six-rebound effort from Brad Johnson. Johnson has been a focal point for the Conquistadors, averaging 14.0 points and 5.3 rebounds over his last seven contests.

Butler has won seven of its last 10 games, displaying a potent offense that has scored 93 or more points in nine of those outings. Dodge City has been more inconsistent in that stretch, going 5-5, but has proven tough at home with recent wins over Pratt and Fort Hays Tech.

The outcome will likely hinge on which team controls the tempo. Butler’s high-scoring attack, which put up 121 points in the first meeting, will test a Dodge City defense that has allowed an average of 86.3 points over its last 10 games. Containing Johnson will be a primary defensive task for the Grizzly Bears.

Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. CST. Butler travels to face Cloud County on Saturday, while Dodge City hosts Independence the same day.