Howard County Basketball: Jan. 9 Preview and Predictions
High school basketball continues to deliver must see moments as the season rolls on and conference play takes center stage. Teams across the area are settling into their identities, rotations are tightening, and every game carries added importance as programs look to build momentum in the heart of the schedule.
Friday’s slate brings another night of competitive matchups, highlighted by a rematch that still has plenty of people talking. With familiarity, pride, and recent history all in play, the stage is set for an entertaining night of basketball. Let’s take a look at the games and break down what to expect.
Polls referenced are from the USA Today Network Indiana boys basketball poll.
Northwestern (6-1) vs Hamilton Heights (1-7)
Northwestern enters Friday’s matchup riding a five-game winning streak. The Tigers’ offense has been sharp during that stretch, with each victory coming by at least 14 points. That strong play will be put to the test when Hamilton Heights visits Northwestern on Friday night.
Hamilton Heights returns to action after a lengthy break. The Huskies picked up their first win of the season two days before Christmas, but closing games has been a challenge. Hamilton Heights has played in three overtime games this season, falling short each time. While the Huskies have shown they can compete, Northwestern’s ability to attack and score in multiple ways could create problems. If the game stays close late, the team that makes key defensive stops is likely to come out on top.
Winner: Northwestern
1A #8 Rossville (8-1) vs Taylor (7-2)
Friday’s matchup between Rossville and Taylor is a rematch of the championship game of the Indiana Kitchen Holiday Classic. In that meeting, Rossville’s Nolan Britt hit a game-winning 3-pointer as time expired to secure a 60-59 victory and ignite a celebration for the Hornets. With how tightly contested the first game was, the rematch is expected to be just as competitive. This time, however, the game will be played on Taylor’s home floor rather than at a neutral site.
Rossville relied on balanced scoring in the first meeting, with four players reaching double figures. Taylor leaned on its big three but struggled defensively, an uncharacteristic performance for a team that typically makes its living on stops and transition opportunities. Prior to the holiday tournament, the Titans turned in one of their strongest defensive efforts of the season at home, setting a standard they will look to return to Friday night. With home-court advantage and a renewed emphasis on defense, Taylor has a strong opportunity to even the season series.
Winner: Taylor
Friday night is another chance for fans to be part of what makes high school basketball special. Packed gyms, loud student sections, and close games create an atmosphere you can’t replicate anywhere else. With teams hitting the heart of their schedules and rivalries adding extra emotion, showing up and supporting local athletes helps elevate the experience for everyone on the floor.
The Kokomo Post Sports team will be on site Friday night for the Rossville vs. Taylor matchup, providing live coverage, score updates, and highlights throughout the game. If you’re looking for a great way to spend the night, head to the gym and take in a rematch that promises plenty of intensity and energy.
Jay’s stats:
Last week: 3-0
2025-2026 sports season: 54-20 (72.9%)
