Howard County Basketball: Jan. 2 Preview and Predictions
A new year brings a fresh slate on the hardwood as Howard County teams tip off their first games of 2026. With conference races starting to take shape and momentum still up for grabs, these early January matchups offer a chance for teams to reset, refocus and set the tone for the rest of the season.
Whether it is building on recent success or searching for a spark after a slow start, each team enters the new year with something to prove. The first games of 2026 always carry a little extra edge, and Friday night should be no different as teams look to make an immediate statement.
Northwestern (4-1) vs Manchester (3-6)
Northwestern’s long layoff over the Christmas holiday is nearing its end, and the Tigers hope the break does not slow their momentum. Northwestern enters Friday on a three-game winning streak and looks to keep it alive during a road trip to Manchester.
Manchester is eager to bounce back after dropping a second loss this season to Southwood. The Squires have lost three of their last four games and will lean on home-court advantage to regain confidence in their first game of the new year. Northwestern’s extended break could lead to some early rust, which may factor into Manchester’s game plan. However, the Tigers have found success by playing in attack mode on both ends of the floor. If that approach carries over Friday night, Manchester could be in for a tough challenge.
Winner: Northwestern
Tri-Township (2-6) vs Eastern (Greentown) (2-5)
Eastern (Greentown) opens play in the Central Indiana Holiday Classic on Friday, welcoming the chance to test itself against regional competition. Holiday tournaments challenge teams not only with continuity but also conditioning, as multiple games in a short span demand sustained focus and energy. While the Comets enter the weekend on a four-game skid, they are focused on turning the page as they prepare to face Tri-Township in their tournament opener.
Tri-Township has also endured a difficult start to the season, winning just two games so far. The Tigers’ struggles have largely come on the offensive end, where they are averaging 36.9 points per game. An early tip time could impact both teams as they search for rhythm. The team that settles in first and finds consistency on offense may have the edge in a matchup where momentum could swing quickly.
Winner: Eastern
Eastern (Greentown) (2-5) vs DeMotte Christian (4-1)
Eastern’s second game of the day comes against a strong DeMotte Christian squad. The Knights’ offense has been sharp in wins this season, scoring at least 66 points in every victory. However, this matchup will be DeMotte Christian’s second game of the afternoon, a factor that could impact the Knights’ energy and execution.
DeMotte Christian is led by seniors Tony Bos, Tanyon Bakker and Titus Terpstra, who combine to average 43.4 points per game and provide steady leadership. Eastern senior Colton Lindsay remains a dangerous scorer when he finds his rhythm, but the Comets will need contributions from their role players to keep pace. If Eastern gets balanced production and holds up defensively, it has a chance to pull off an upset and close the day with a win.
Winner: DeMotte Christian
As the calendar turns to 2026, area teams are eager to build momentum and set the tone for the new year. The opening games of January offer a fresh start, new opportunities, and a chance for players to turn lessons from December into wins moving forward. Early-season matchups can shape confidence and direction, making every possession and performance matter.
Fans play a key role in that energy. There’s no better way to kick off the new year than by packing the gym, supporting local athletes, and being part of the moments that define a season. Whether it’s a rivalry game or a tournament matchup, these first games of 2026 promise excitement, intensity, and plenty of storylines worth watching.
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