Howard County Basketball: Dec. 19 Preview and Predictions
Conference play and early-season momentum continue to take shape as Howard County teams return to the court this week. With each game offering a chance to build confidence, sharpen identities, and establish consistency, these matchups carry added importance as the calendar turns toward the heart of the season.
Several teams enter the week riding strong performances, while others face key tests against quality opponents. From high-powered offenses to defensive-minded squads, Friday night’s slate provides plenty for fans to watch as local programs look to make statements on both ends of the floor.
Let’s take a closer look at the matchups and predict the winners.
Kokomo (3-0) vs Marion (3-1)
Kokomo has opened the season with three strong performances, receiving contributions from multiple players along the way. The Wildkats will look to follow a similar blueprint when they travel to Marion.
Friday’s matchup is the back end of a girls boys doubleheader for the Giants, who are seeking a repeat of last season’s thrilling win in downtown Kokomo. While Kokomo holds a height advantage, Marion’s defense could be the difference. The Giants rely on athleticism and a scrappy defensive approach to disrupt opponents. Kokomo has not allowed more than 50 points in a game this season, while Marion has scored at least 67 points in every outing. One of those trends is likely to end in this matchup.
Winner: Marion
Hamilton Heights (0-4) vs Western (3-2)
After opening the season against two tough opponents, Western has responded with back to back wins. The Panthers’ most impressive performance came in a 33 point victory over Twin Lakes, a result that provided a significant boost in confidence ahead of Friday’s matchup with Hamilton Heights.
Hamilton Heights is still searching for its first win of the season. The Huskies have been competitive, dropping two games in overtime, but defensive struggles have been an ongoing issue. Hamilton Heights has allowed at least 62 points in every game this season, a trend Western head coach Cam Bennington will look to exploit. With the Panthers’ offense finding its rhythm, Western appears well positioned to build momentum and earn a key conference win on its home court.
Winner: Western
Rochester (2-2) vs Northwestern (2-1)
Northwestern picked up a much needed confidence boost earlier in the week with a lopsided win over Frankfort, bouncing back from a 57 13 loss to Taylor. Returning home should be a welcome sight for the Tigers as they prepare to host Rochester.
Rochester is still working to build chemistry early in the season and enters the game following an 18 point loss to Logansport. One key storyline will be whether Northwestern’s top players can get off to fast starts, as the Tigers’ tempo often dictates the flow of the game. Rochester’s balanced offensive approach will look to slow that pace and spoil the night in front of the home crowd.
Winner: Rochester
Sheridan (3-0) vs Eastern (2-1)
Eastern is coming off a seven-point win over Tri-Central and has been one of the more explosive offensive teams early in the season. The Comets are averaging 70.7 points per game, a pace they will look to maintain Friday night when they host Sheridan.
Sheridan enters the matchup unbeaten and brings a balanced offensive attack. The Blackhawks have three players averaging at least 11 points per game, a formula that has led to several lopsided wins. Eastern’s defense will be a major point of emphasis for head coach Brad Lindsay, as the Comets have allowed at least 52 points in every game. That defensive inconsistency could play into Sheridan’s game plan as the Blackhawks aim to leave Greentown with their perfect record intact.
Winner: Sheridan
Taylor (2-1) vs Delphi (3-1)
Taylor enters Friday’s matchup riding a two-game winning streak, highlighted by a historic 57-13 victory over Northwestern. Holding an opponent to 13 points is a rare feat and showcased the strength of the Titans’ defense. Taylor will look to build on that all-around performance when it travels to Delphi.
Delphi has won three straight games, including a double-overtime victory over Clinton Prairie. The Oracles’ offense has been rolling during the streak, scoring at least 63 points in each win. Taylor presents a different challenge, though, as the Titans’ “big three” have delivered efficient play on both ends of the court. While Delphi owns the home-court advantage, slowing Taylor’s balanced and disciplined approach may prove difficult.
Winner: Taylor
As conference play begins to take shape, Friday night offers another strong slate of matchups across Howard County. Each game brings its own storyline, from teams building momentum to others looking to protect home court. Early-season tests like these often set the tone for what is to come, making every possession matter.
Fans are encouraged to get out to the gyms and support their local teams. The energy from the stands can make a difference, especially in tightly contested games, and there is no better way to experience high school basketball than in person on a Friday night.
Jay’s stats
Last week: 3-1
2025-2026 sports season: 47-18 (72.3%)
