Basketball Game Preview: Novinger Wildcats vs. Meadville Eagles

The Novinger Wildcats will take on the Meadville Eagles at 7:30 p.m. on Friday. Novinger has now lost seven straight, leaving the team hunting for their first win since January 9.

Novinger is headed into the matchup out to prove that what happened against Heartland Christian Academy on Tuesday (when they were outscored in every quarter) was just a minor bump in the road. Novinger came up short against Heartland Christian Academy, falling 71-45. The Wildcats were in a tough position after the first half, with the score already sitting at 52-29.

Meanwhile, Meadville was within striking distance but couldn't close the gap on Thursday as they fell 60-56 to Hale. The loss continues a trend for the Eagles in their matchups with the Cardinals: they've now lost four in a row.

Novinger will have to contain Mason Dennis as he made an impact in Meadville's last game. He posted 16 points and six assists. Another player making a difference was Walker Norris, who earned six points in addition to five boards and four steals.

Meadville's defeat dropped their record down to 12-10. As for Novinger, their loss dropped their record down to 4-12.

Novinger came up short against Meadville in their previous meeting back in February of 2024, falling 62-50. Thankfully for Novinger, Gauge Shiflett (who dropped a double-double on 19 points and ten rebounds) won't be suiting up this time. Will that be enough to change the final result? Check MaxPreps.com after the match to find out.