Howard County: Nov. 26 Basketball Predictions

The wait for high school basketball is finally over, and Hoosier hysteria has returned. Over the next few months, The Kokomo Post will provide a unique perspective on the talented basketball players in Howard County.

One way we plan to enhance the season is by predicting games each week. While this week’s schedule features only a few games, that won’t be the case every week.

Let’s dive into this week’s matchups and predict the winners as the boys’ high school basketball season tips off in the Hoosier State.

Kokomo 0-0 vs Western 0-0

Starting the season with a rivalry game is a strong test of offseason preparation. Kokomo and Western are no strangers to each other, with both teams eager to make a statement.

Kokomo enters the matchup without last year’s Mr. Basketball, while Western is fueled by the memory of last season’s lopsided loss to the Wildkats.

The deciding factor is likely to be Kokomo’s athleticism. While Western isn’t expected to shoot as poorly as it did in last year’s meeting, the Wildkats’ speed and agility should give them the edge in this spirited rivalry game.

Winner: Kokomo

Pioneer 0-0 vs Northwestern 0-0

Both Pioneer and Northwestern enter the season looking to fill significant voids left by last year’s teams. For Northwestern, the absence of Preston Sims, now playing at a preparatory academy in Florida, creates an opportunity for a new go-to scorer to emerge.

Northwestern’s home-court advantage could play a key role in this matchup. Hosting a game during Thanksgiving week is a rare luxury, providing players with the chance to perform in front of family and friends who may not usually get to see them play.

While Pioneer won’t roll over, overcoming the Tigers’ home-court edge will be a challenge. Expect Northwestern to capitalize on the energy of the home crowd to secure a win.

Winner: Northwestern