Howard County Basketball: Jan. 30 Preview and Predictions
Time is running out for high school basketball fans to catch the action in person. With just one month left in the regular season, every game counts — from conference matchups to big rivalry showdowns. Fans still have plenty of chances to see teams make a push for playoff positioning and experience the excitement firsthand.
This week, we highlight some of the top matchups, with rankings referenced from the USA Today Network High School Boys Basketball Poll. Don’t miss the chance to see the region’s top talent on the court before the season wraps up.
Lafayette Jefferson (8-6) vs Kokomo (10-5)
Kokomo enters Friday’s North Central Conference matchup riding a three-game winning streak and sitting atop the league standings. The Wildkats have built momentum on both ends of the floor as they prepare to face Lafayette Jefferson.
Lafayette Jefferson has split its last four games, including a conference win over Marion. The Bronchos are led by senior Cristian Olson (17.3 points per game) and junior Treshawn Baker (11.7), and will look to challenge the conference’s top team. One key factor could be Kokomo’s second-half production. The Wildkats average 36.1 points after halftime, compared to 27.4 for the Bronchos. If the game is close late, Kokomo’s experience could prove decisive in front of its home crowd.
Winner: Kokomo
Class 1A #6 Southwood (11-1) vs Northwestern (10-3)
Northwestern enters Friday night’s matchup with Southwood having won four of its last five games. The Tigers sit atop the Three Rivers Conference standings and will look to maintain their grip on first place at home.
Southwood brings an 11-game winning streak into the contest. The Knights have been strong on both ends of the floor during that stretch, holding all but two opponents under 50 points. Senior Bryce Wilcox has been a force for Southwood, averaging 23.3 points and 9.4 rebounds per game.
While Wilcox is enjoying a phenomenal season, Northwestern has consistently found ways to win close games on its home court. If the matchup is tight late, look for the Tigers to lean on their veteran leadership to secure a key conference win.
Winner: Northwestern
Eastern (Greentown) (7-5) vs Class 1A #8 Rossville (13-2)
Eastern (Greentown) is playing its best basketball of the season, having won four straight. Senior Colton Lindsay leads the Comets as they look to challenge Class 1A No. 8 Rossville.
Rossville has been one of the hottest teams in 1A, winning nine of its last 10 games, including a 103-point performance against Tri-Central. The Hornets play balanced, disciplined basketball that is difficult to stop. Eastern can put up big numbers when its offense is clicking, but the Comets have struggled to defend against strong teams. That makes Rossville a heavy favorite to put on a show for its home fans and secure a key conference win.
Winner: Rossville
Taylor (10-4) vs Sheridan (10-2)
Taylor enters Friday’s Hoosier Heartland Conference game having won three of its last four, including a victory over county rival Western. The Titans are led by a dynamic trio that will need to bring its A game on the road at Sheridan.
Sheridan has won four of its last five and sits atop the HHC standings. Right behind the Blackhawks are the Titans, who can move closer to a conference title with a win Friday night. Sheridan has done an excellent job creating and maintaining separation in its victories, posting a 20.4-point margin of victory that reflects its consistency this season.
Taylor, at times, has allowed teams to hang around instead of dictating the pace of the game. That trend could challenge their goal of taking down the top team in the conference.
Winner: Sheridan
High school basketball is heating up, and there’s no better way to support your team than by showing up in the stands. Fans can feel the energy, witness standout performances, and be part of every thrilling moment. Whether it’s a close conference battle or a rivalry game, your cheers make a difference.
The Kokomo Post Sports team will be courtside Friday night for Lafayette Jeff vs. Kokomo, providing live updates, highlights, and coverage you won’t want to miss. Grab your tickets, bring the family, and catch all the action as the regular season races toward the finish line.
Jay’s stats
Last week: 2-1
2025-2026 sports season: 58-25 (69.9%)
