Preview: Omaha Northwest Huskies vs. Bryan Bears
Omaha Northwest has enjoyed the comforts of home their last two games, but now they'll head out on the road. They will take on the Bryan Bears at 7:15 p.m. on Friday. Omaha Northwest has been getting the ball to fall more lately as they've increased their point totals each of their last four games.
Omaha Northwest scored the most points they've had all season to find success on Tuesday. They blew past South Sioux City 91-59 at home. That looming 91-59 mark stands out as the most commanding margin for Omaha Northwest yet this season.
Omaha Northwest found their leader in underclassman Dontae McDowell, who scored 16 points along with six rebounds and three steals. Another player making a difference was Michael Seals, who scored 14 points along with two steals.
Bryan posted their biggest win since December 8, 2023 on Tuesday. They blew past Grand Island 75-50. Given Bryan's advantage in MaxPreps' Nebraska basketball rankings (they are ranked 40th, while Grand Island is ranked 161st), the result wasn't entirely unexpected.
It was another big night for A'mare Bynum, who dropped a double-double on 25 points and ten rebounds. He hasn't dropped below eight rebounds for four straight games. Amir Martin was another key contributor, scoring 16 points along with two blocks.
Omaha Northwest's victory ended a three-game drought at home and bumped them up to 3-9. As for Bryan, their victory was their third straight at home, which pushed their record up to 10-4.
This contest is one where the number of possessions is likely to be a big factor: Omaha Northwest have been smashing the glass this season, having averaged 25.8 rebounds per game. However, it's not like Bryan struggles in that department as they've been averaging 27.9 rebounds per game. Given these competing strengths, it'll be interesting to see how their clash plays out.
Omaha Northwest suffered a grim 82-62 defeat to Bryan when the teams last played back in February of 2023. Thankfully for Omaha Northwest, Mat Tut (who dropped a double-double on 24 points and 11 rebounds) won't be suiting up this time. Will that be enough to change the final result? There's only one way to find out.
