Basketball Game Preview: Independence Mustangs vs. Benton Bobcats

Independence is 0-10 against Benton since January of 2018 but things could change on Friday. The Independence Mustangs will look to defend their home court against the Benton Bobcats at 6:00 p.m. Benton took a loss in their last matchup and will be looking to turn the tables on Independence, who comes in off a win.

Last Tuesday, Independence earned a 46-39 win over Grinnell. The victory made it back-to-back wins for the Mustangs.

Meanwhile, Benton had to suffer through a 52-22 loss at the hands of Marion. While losing is never fun, the Bobcats can't take it too hard given the team's big disadvantage in MaxPreps' Iowa basketball rankings (they are ranked 214th, while the Wolves are ranked 86th).

Benton dropped their record down to 2-7 with the loss, which was their fifth straight at home dating back to last season. As for Independence, they now have a winning record of 6-5.

Independence might still be hurting after the 58-32 defeat they got from Benton in their previous meeting back in January of 2024. Can Independence avenge their loss or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.