Basketball Preview: Northwestern Tigers vs. Tipton Blue Devils
Northwestern is 9-1 against Tipton since November of 2014, and they'll have a chance to extend that success on Tuesday. The Northwestern Tigers will be staying on the road to face off against the Tipton Blue Devils at 7:00 p.m. Northwestern will be strutting in after a victory while Tipton will be coming in after a defeat.
Last Tuesday, Northwestern escaped with a win against Delphi Community by the margin of a single free throw, 57-56.
Northwestern had a senior duo take command as Berkley Wray almost dropped a double-double on 16 points and nine rebounds and Anna Bishir went 8 for 18 en route to 22 points plus five assists and five steals. Wray is crushing it when it comes to rebounds: she's pulled down at least nine every time she's taken the court this season. Maci Rody was another key player, earning six points plus seven rebounds.
Northwestern smashed the offensive glass and finished the game with 11 offensive rebounds. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now pulled down at least eight offensive rebounds in three consecutive matches.
Meanwhile, Tipton was not able to break out of their rough patch on Saturday as the team picked up their fourth straight loss. They were dealt a 57-26 defeat at the hands of Winchester Community.
Despite the loss, Tipton had strong showings from Hollyn Wilson, who scored four points plus nine rebounds and two blocks, and Mackenzie Farinella, who earned nine points along with six rebounds and three steals. What's more, Wilson also racked up four offensive rebounds, the most she's had since back in December of 2023.
Northwestern's win ended a six-game drought on the road dating back to last season and puts them at 1-2. As for Tipton, their defeat dropped their record down to 1-4.
Rebounding is likely to be a big factor in this contest: Northwestern has been smashing the glass this season, having averaged 32 rebounds per game. However, it's not like Tipton struggles in that department as they've been averaging 23.4. With both teams battling to corral missed shots, we'll see if one team can grab an edge.
Everything came up roses for Northwestern against Tipton in their previous meeting back in November of 2023, as the squad secured a 63-29 victory. The rematch might be a little tougher for Northwestern since the team won't have the home-court advantage this time around. We'll see if the change in venue makes a difference.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps