BORGER, Texas (Interstat) — The New Mexico Junior College Thunderbirds look to rebound from a tough loss when they visit the Frank Phillips College Plainsmen in a men’s junior college basketball matchup Tuesday night.

New Mexico (11-4) enters the contest at the Borger Community Activity Center following a 78-87 home loss to Midland on Jan. 22. The Thunderbirds had won two straight prior to that defeat. Frank Phillips (6-11) seeks to end a four-game skid, most recently falling 62-69 at New Mexico Military Institute on Jan. 22.

The Thunderbirds are led by versatile guard Grigorije Avramovic, who is averaging 9.4 points, 5.2 rebounds and 3.8 assists over his last five games. He posted 12 points, five rebounds and five assists in the loss to Midland. For the Plainsmen, guard Bryceson Dobie has been a consistent scorer, averaging 15.8 points over his last five contests. He logged 40 minutes and scored 18 points with eight rebounds in a loss to Odessa on Jan. 19.

This is the second meeting between the teams in as many days. They played Monday in Borger, with details of that result unavailable for this preview. The quick rematch adds a layer of immediacy to the regional rivalry.

Statistically, New Mexico holds a clear advantage in season performance. The Thunderbirds’ offense has shown potency, scoring 86 points or more in three of their last five games. Frank Phillips has struggled defensively during its losing streak, allowing an average of 84.5 points per game in those four losses.

According to Interstat’s ELO system, New Mexico is projected with a 57.40% probability to win. The Thunderbirds’ upcoming schedule includes a home game against New Mexico Military on Jan. 29. Frank Phillips continues its homestand, hosting Western Texas on Feb. 2.

Tip-off is set for Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026, in Borger.