The Harding County Ranchers will look to defend their home court on Thursday against the Belle Fourche Broncs at 6:30 p.m. Given that both teams suffered a loss in their last game, they both have a little extra motivation heading into this match.
Harding County's recent rough patch got a bit rougher on Tuesday after their third straight loss. They fell 59-50 to New England.
Harding County's loss came about despite a quality game from Evan Meyer, who dropped a double-double on 13 points and ten rebounds. Meyer also posted two blocks for the first time this season. Payton Dvorak was another key contributor, scoring nine points along with seven rebounds and five assists.
Belle Fourche suffered their biggest loss yet this season on Saturday. They were dealt a 88-34 defeat at the hands of Bowman County co-op [Bowman/Rhame]. The defeat unfortunately continues a disappointing trend for Belle Fourche in their matchups with Bowman County co-op [Bowman/Rhame]: they've now lost four in a row.
Despite the defeat, Belle Fourche had strong showings from Isaac Voyles, who scored 12 points, and Jet Jensen, who scored ten points along with three steals.
Harding County's defeat ended a nine-game streak of wins at home and dropped them to 6-5. As for Belle Fourche, they have been struggling recently, as they've lost six of their last seven matchups, which put a noticeable dent in their 2-8 record this season.
This contest is one where the number of possessions is likely to be a big factor: Harding County have been smashing the glass this season, having averaged 32.2 rebounds per game. However, it's not like Belle Fourche struggles in that department as they've been averaging 26.7 rebounds per game. Given these competing strengths, it'll be interesting to see how their clash plays out.
Harding County strolled past Belle Fourche in their previous meeting back in January of 2023 by a score of 62-48. Does Harding County have another victory up their sleeve, or will Belle Fourche turn the tables on them? We'll have the answer soon enough.
