Basketball Game Preview: Natomas Nighthawks vs. Rio Linda Knights

The Natomas Nighthawks will square off against the Rio Linda Knights at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday. Natomas has been getting the ball to fall more lately as they've increased their point totals each of their last four games.

Natomas saw some tournament action on Saturday. They strolled past Granada with points to spare, taking the game 74-58.

It was another big night for Manno Jenkins, who almost dropped a double-double on 30 points and nine steals. Those nine steals gave him a new career-high. The team also got some help courtesy of Alfred Wilkins, who posted 13 points and six rebounds.

Natomas was working as a unit and finished the game with 17 assists. That's the most assists they've managed all season.

Meanwhile, Rio Linda was within striking distance but couldn't close the gap on Friday as they fell 56-50 to Dixon. While losing is never fun, the Knights can't take it too hard given the team's big disadvantage in MaxPreps' California basketball rankings (they are ranked 1234th, while the Rams are ranked 601st).

Natomas has been performing well recently as they've won three of their last four matches, which provided a nice bump to their 8-5 record this season. As for Rio Linda, their loss was their fourth straight at home, which dropped their record down to 3-12.

Natomas beat Rio Linda 72-60 when the teams last played back in December of 2018. One of the biggest obstacles trying to stand in the way of that victory was Rio Linda's James Crudup, who went 6 of 11 on his way to 22 points. Now that he won't be playing on Tuesday, will it be easier for Natomas to walk away with another win? Check MaxPreps.com after the match to find out.