Howard County: Jan. 3 Basketball Predictions

Sports offer a sense of normalcy during the busy holiday season. As the new year begins, high school basketball stands out as one of the best forms of entertainment.

Although only one county team is playing on the first Friday of the new year, the matchup promises to be a competitive contest that fans will enjoy.

Now, let’s dive into this week’s matchup and predict the winner.

2A #10 Manchester 8-1 vs Northwestern 4-2

Northwestern is eager to start the new year the same way the Tigers ended 2024 — with a win. The Tigers’ first game of 2025 is against a Manchester squad led by a pair of players who know how to score.

Manchester enters the new year on a five-game winning streak. Five of the Squires’ eight victories have come away from their homecourt, boosting their confidence heading into Friday night’s game. Additionally, Manchester plays at a pace that could create challenges for Northwestern, a key reason the Squires are favored to win their first game of 2025.

Winner: Manchester

Last week: 2-1

All-time: 13-4 (74.6%)