Howard County Girls Basketball: Nov. 21 Preview
Howard County girls basketball is heating up as the early season continues, and Friday’s matchups are set to provide plenty of excitement for fans. With teams still searching for wins and others looking to build on strong starts, the action promises highlight-reel plays, dramatic finishes, and plenty of storylines to follow. Whether it’s a home-court battle or a road test, the Lady Panthers, Lady Wildkats, Lady Comets, and Lady Tigers are ready to bring intensity to every game.
This week, all eyes will be on the county’s key matchups, as rivalry games and young talent take center stage. Fans can expect fast-paced action, high stakes, and plenty of reasons to cheer, making it the perfect opportunity to head to the gyms and support the teams.
Let’s dive into the matchups and predict winners.
Fort Wayne South Side Lady Archers (0-3) vs Kokomo Lady Wildkats (3-2)
Kokomo enters Friday’s matchup after a close 45-42 loss to Lewis Cass, but that result doesn’t overshadow the Lady Wildkats’ recent momentum. They have won two of their last three and continue to show progress early in the season. Now, Kokomo looks to reset and pick up a key win as Fort Wayne South Side comes to Memorial Gymnasium.
South Side is still searching for its first victory. The Lady Archers dropped their first two games in lopsided fashion before turning in a more competitive effort against Fort Wayne Bishop Luers. Defense has been an issue, with South Side allowing 62.3 points per game. Playing at home should give the Lady Wildkats an edge, and they enter the night in a strong position to secure an important bounce-back win.
Winner: Kokomo
Western Lady Panthers (3-1) vs Tipton Lady Blue Devils (2-2)
Western enters Friday’s game riding a three-game winning streak. The Lady Panthers continue to be fueled by Ellyse Walden, who is averaging 14.5 points and 10.8 rebounds per game. Her consistent double-double production has been a key part of Western’s early-season success and will be central to their game plan as they travel to Tipton.
Tipton comes in with momentum of its own, having won two straight. The Lady Blue Devils excel at sharing the ball, recording assists on 33 of their 46 made field goals this season. Home court is often a valuable advantage early in the year, but it may not be enough to slow down Western. The Lady Panthers have been the stronger offensive team to this point, and that edge is expected to carry into Friday night.
Winner: Western
Northwestern Lady Tigers (0-4) vs Lewis Cass Lady Kings (4-0)
Northwestern enters the game still looking for their first win of the season. The Lady Tigers have struggled to generate consistent offense, which has led to several lopsided losses. Friday’s matchup brings another major test during their road trip to Lewis Cass.
Lewis Cass is off to a strong start with four straight wins to open the season. The Lady Kings have been steady on both ends of the court, helping them build an average margin of victory of 19 points per game. With Northwestern’s offensive issues and Lewis Cass holding clear advantages in several key statistical areas, the Lady Kings are positioned to deliver another impressive performance in front of their home crowd.
Winner: Lewis Cass
Eastern Lady Comets (0-4) vs Rossville Lady Hornets (3-0)
Eastern is another Howard County team still searching for its first win. The Lady Comets’ youth has been evident early in the season, and they’ll need their best performance yet to pull off an upset against Rossville.
Rossville opened the year with three straight wins. The Lady Hornets are powered by seniors Ava Burkle and Addi Gorbett, who average 14.3 and 11.3 points per game. Combine that with the team’s 38 percent shooting from three, and Rossville looks like a group poised for another strong outing Friday night. Eastern’s youth and inexperience could show up again as the Lady Hornets aim to deliver in front of their home crowd.
Winner: Rossville
Friday’s slate offers plenty of reasons for fans to get out and support their local teams. With several programs looking to build momentum and others aiming to protect early-season success, the energy around gyms across the area should be high. If you’re able, make plans to show up, fill the stands, and give these student-athletes the kind of atmosphere that can swing a game.
The Kokomo Post Sports team will be at Fort Wayne South Side vs. Kokomo, providing full coverage from Memorial Gymnasium. Follow along for scores, updates, and postgame reactions as the Lady Wildkats look to secure another statement win.
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