Basketball Game Preview: Illinois Math & Science Academy Titans vs. Newark Norsemen

Illinois Math & Science Academy hasn't had much luck against Newark recently, but that could start to change on Friday. Having just played yesterday, the Illinois Math & Science Academy Titans will get right back to it and host the Newark Norsemen at 7:00 p.m. Illinois Math & Science Academy knows how to get points on the board -- the squad has finished with 55 points or more in their past three matches -- so hopefully Newark likes a good challenge.

Illinois Math & Science Academy took a loss when they played away from home back in December of 2024, but their home fans gave them all the motivation they needed on Thursday. They blew past Alden-Hebron 62-28. For those keeping track at home, that's the biggest win the Titans have posted since December 6, 2024.

Meanwhile, Newark entered their tilt with Aurora Christian on Wednesday with two consecutive wins but they'll enter their next game with three. They escaped with a win against the Eagles by the margin of a single free throw, 53-52.

Newark's win came from a few key players Illinois Math & Science Academy will need to keep an eye on. One of the most notable was Dylan Long, who posted 26 points along with six rebounds and five steals. The contest was his 13th in a row with at least ten points. Payton Wills was another key player, putting up nine points in addition to seven steals and five boards.

Newark pushed their record up to 10-7 with the victory, which was their fourth straight at home. The wins came thanks to their offensive performance across that stretch, as they averaged 62.5 points per game. As for Illinois Math & Science Academy, the win was their first at home , bumping their record up to 4-8.

Illinois Math & Science Academy couldn't quite finish off Newark in their previous meeting back in February of 2024 and fell 49-47. Will Illinois Math & Science Academy have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check MaxPreps after the action for a full breakdown of the game and more basketball content.