By GREG MENGELT

Jeffersonville and Jennings County had their shots at Bedford North Lawrence. The fourth-ranked Stars shoved both aside.

After the New Year, defending Hoosier Hills Conference champion Columbus East (8-1) will have its shot to upset BNL like it did last year.

But Saturday is New Albany’s turn. The Bulldogs (4-5) are 4-5 and riding a 4-game losing streak coming into Saturday’s Hoosier Hills Hoops Game of the Day. The Stars (7-1), on the other hand, have taken on all Indiana teams attempting to knock them off, including a 54-51 win over then-No. 4 North Central (7-2) on Nov 19. BNL’s lone loss came against Illinois powerhouse Fremd, 41-40, on Nov. 27.

In Saturday’s other HHC contest, Jeffersonville (6-3) and Floyd Central (3-4) are searching for their first league wins. Jeff is 0-2 after losing to BNL and Jennings. The Highlanders’ lone conference contest was a 57-48 defeat at East to start the season.

Silver Creek (7-0) and North Harrison (7-3), who are both off to great starts in 2021-22, are at the University of Southern Indiana in Evansville for the River City Showcase. A night after knocking off Kentucky power Bowling Green 53-49 on the road, the Dragons drive from Southern Kentucky to Evansville to face Evansville North (3-1) at 12:40 p.m. North has one of the top teams in Evansville this season.

Silver Creek’s contest comes on the heels of North Harrison taking on Gibson Southern (4-2) at the Southern Indiana Screaming Eagles Activities Center. The Titans recently had a 4-game winning streak stopped with a 4-point loss Vincennes (3-5).

Also Saturday, Eastern (5-2) faces Brownstown Central (2-6) in an MSC contest, while Christian Academy (2-7) faces Switzerland County (7-1) and Henryville (2-4) battles Paoli (3-4).

GAME OF THE NIGHT
BEDFORD NORTH LAWRENCE (7-1, 2-0) AT NEW ALBANY (4-5, 0-0)
• Time: 1 p.m.
• Location: The Doghouse, New Albany H.S. (1020 Vincennes St., New Albany)
• Coaches:
BNL — Jeff Allen (162-35 in eighth season at BNL).
New Albany — Shelby Gliebe (10-21 in second season at New Albany, 14-40 in third season overall).
• Rankings:
BNL — No. 4 IBCA (single class); No. 4 ICGSA (Class 4A).
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
BNL — No. 8, No. 7 Class 4A.
New Albany — No. 123, No. 60 Class 4A.
• Most recent game:
BNL — Won at Jennings County 50-34 (Nov. 30).
New Albany — Lost to North Harrison 77-53 (Dec. 2).
• Last 20 years: BNL 22-5. The Stars have won 6 in a row over New Albany.
• Most recent meeting: Feb. 2 — BNL 78, New Albany 44 (Class 4A New Albany Sectional first round).
• News and notes: This event is varsity only.
• John Harrell prediction: BNL 64, New Albany 30.
• Sagarin projection: BNL by 23.
• Outlook: Looks like BNL is a legit contender to win its fifth state championship.
• Greg’s pick: BNL 68, New Albany 40.

JEFFERSONVILLE (6-3, 0-2 HHC) AT FLOYD CENTRAL (3-4, 0-1)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Joe Hinton Court, Floyd Central H.S. (6575 Old Vincennes Rd., Floyds Knobs)
• Coaches:
Jeffersonville — Missy Voyles (12-15 in second season at Jeff, 282-129 in 18th season overall).
Floyd Central — Randy Gianfagna (23-51 in fourth season at Floyd).
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
Jeffersonville — No. 76, No. 44 Class 4A.
Floyd Central — No. 152, No. 65 Class 4A.
• Most recent game:
Jeffersonville — Won at Lawrenceburg 44-24 (Dec. 1).
Floyd Central — Defeated Madison 42-39 (Dec. 1)
• Last 20 years: Jeffersonville 23-6. The Red Devils have won 10 consecutive games in the series.
• Most recent meeting: Dec. 23, 2020 — At Jeffersonville 39, Floyd Central 26.
• John Harrell prediction: Jeffersonville 47, Floyd Central 36.
• Sagarin projection: Jeffersonville by 7.
• Outlook: It looks like Jeff is quite a bit better than the Highlanders so far.
• Greg’s pick: Jeffersonville 59, Floyd Central 46.

SILVER CREEK (7-0) VS. EVANSVILLE NORTH (3-1)
• Time: 12:40 p.m.
• Event: River City Showcase.
• Location: University of Southern Indiana (8600 University Blvd., Evansville)
• Coaches:
Silver Creek — Scott Schoen (163-108 in 12th season at Silver Creek).
North — Tyler Choate (86-40 in sixth season at North).
• Rankings:
Silver Creek — No. 12 IBCA (single class); No. 3 ICGSA (Class 3A).
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
Silver Creek — No. 25, No. 6 Class 3A.
North — No. 59, Class 4A No. 41.
• Most recent game:
Silver Creek — Defeated Bowling Green (Ky.) 53-49 (Dec. 3).
North — Lost to Castle 61-54 (Nov. 23).
• Last 20 years: No meetings.
• John Harrell prediction: Silver Creek 59, North 49.
• Sagarin projection: Silver Creek by 6.
• Outlook: With the travel and a game last night, the Dragons will obviously be exhausted at some point during this game. Will it cost them their unbeaten record.
• Greg’s pick: Silver Creek 62, North 61.

NORTH HARRISON (7-3) VS. GIBSON SOUTHERN (4-2)
• Time: 11 a.m.
• Event: River City Showcase.
• Location: University of Southern Indiana (8600 University Blvd., Evansville)
• Coaches:
North Harrison — Jamie Kolkmeier (19-9 in second season at North Harrison).
Gibson Southern — Kyle Brasher (62-16 in fourth season at Gibson Southern).
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
North Harrison — No. 110, No. 28 Class 3A.
Gibson Southern — No. 67, No. 16 Class 3A.
• Most recent game:
Gibson Southern — Lost at Vincennes 55-51.
North Harrison — Won at New Albany 77-53 (Dec. 2).
• Last 20 years: Gibson Southern 1-0
• Most recent meeting: Feb. 16, 2002 — Gibson Southern 52, North Harrison 49 (Class 3A regional semifinal).
• John Harrell prediction: Gibson Southern 55, North Harrison 51.
• Sagarin projection: Gibson Southern by 11.
• Outlook: Great matchup. We have a feeling North Harrison is the better team.
• Greg’s pick: North Harrison 60, Gibson Southern 55.

CHARLESTOWN (5-2) AT NEW WASHINGTON (4-4)
• Time: 1:30 p.m.
• Location: Matthews Gymnasium (a.k.a. The Jim), New Washington H.S. (226 N. Highway 62, New Washington)
• Coaches:
Charlestown — Scott Matthews (71-54 in sixth season at Charlestown).
New Washington — Kirsti Holloway (59-87 in seventh season at New Washington).
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
Charlestown — No. 62, No. 13 Class 3A.
New Washington — No. 197, No. 24 Class A.
• Most recent game:
Charlestown — Defeated Austin 70-32 (Dec. 1).
New Washington — Defeated Rock Creek 55-25 (Dec. 2).
• Last 20 years: Charlestown 19-12. The Pirates have won 10 in a row over their rivals.
• Most recent meeting: Dec. 1, 2020 — Charlestown 51, at New Washington 34.
• John Harrell prediction: Charlestown 59, New Washington 36.
• Sagarin projection: Charlestown by 16.
• Outlook: Charlestown is really good. That sometimes gets obscured by so many good local 3A teams.
• Greg’s pick: Charlestown 66, New Washington 45.

EASTERN (5-2, 1-2 MSC) AT BROWNSTOWN CENTRAL (2-6, 0-2)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Brownstown Central H.S.,, 500 N. Elm St., Brownstown)
• Coaches:
Eastern — Michael McBride (224-117 in 15th season at Eastern).
Brownstown — Brandon Allman (47-17 in third season at Brownstown).
• Rankings:
Eastern — No. 8 ICGSA (Class 2A).
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
Eastern — No. 115, No. 21 Class 2A.
Brownstown — No. 150, No. 45 Class 3A.
• Most recent game:
Eastern — Defeated Providence 47-15 (Dec. 2).
Brownstown — Lost to Seymour 62-45 (Dec. 2).
• Last 20 years: Brownstown 18-6. The Braves have beaten Eastern three straight times.
• Most recent meeting: Dec. 5, 2020 — Brownstown 54, at Eastern 40.
• John Harrell prediction: Eastern 46, Brownstown 42.
• Sagarin projection: Eastern by 1.
• Outlook: This is a tough road game for Eastern and a game that could go either way.
• Greg’s pick: Eastern 51, Brownstown 49.

SWITZERLAND COUNTY (7-1) AT CHRISTIAN ACADEMY (2-7)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Christian Academy (1000 Academy Dr., New Albany)
• Coaches:
Switzerland County — Brooke Todd (7-1 in first season at Switzerland County).
CAI — Carson Casey (10-42 in third season at CAI).
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
Switzerland County — No. 211, No. 52 (Class 2A).
CAI — No. 367, No. 77 Class A.
• Most recent game:
Switzerland County — Defeated Crothersville 74-43 (Dec. 2).
CAI — Lost to Providence 48-22 (Nov. 30).
• Last 20 years: Switzerland County 3-1. The Pacers have won three straight against Christian Academy.
• Most recent meeting: Jan. 9 — At Switzerland County 69, CAI 9.
• News and notes: After an 0-5 start, CAI has won 2 of its last 4 games. … Switzerland County has won 6 straight games. The Pacers’ lone loss came on Nov. 12, 53-27 at Madison.
• John Harrell prediction: Switzerland County 55, CAI 24.
• Sagarin projection: Switzerland County by 30.
• Outlook: The Pacers should win by double digits.
• Greg’s pick: Switzerland County 47, CAI 25.

HENRYVILLE (2-4) AT PAOLI (3-4)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Paoli H.S. (501 Elm St., Paoli)
• Coaches:
Henryville — Tuesday Guernsey (17-31 in third season at Henryville).
Paoli — Donavan Crews (13-10 in second season at Paoli).
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
Henryville — No. 312, No. 79 Class 2A.
Paoli — No. 181, Nov. 38 Class 2A.
• Most recent game:
Henryville — Lost at Lanesville 67-8 (Dec. 2)
Paoli — Lost to Salem 55-39 (Dec. 2)
• Last 20 years: Paoli 11-0.
• Most recent meeting: Dec. 5, 2020 — Paoli 41, at Henryville 18..
• John Harrell prediction: Paoli 57, Henryville 26.
• Sagarin projection: Paoli by 26.
• Outlook: If Paoli is playing within 16 points of Salem, the Rams are pretty good.
• Greg’s pick: Paoli 56, Henryville 36.

ROCK CREEK (5-3) AT NORTH DAVIESS (1-5)
• Time: Noon.
• Event: North Daviess Invitational.
• Location: Cougar Den, North Daviess H.S. (5494 E. State Road 58, Elnora)
• Coaches:
Rock Creek — Sara Nord (7-12 in second season at Rock Creek).
North Daviess — Joe Riggins (35-67 in fifth season at North Daviess).
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
Rock Creek — No. 307, No. 55 Class A.
North Daviess — No. 341, No. 69 Class A.
• Most recent game:
Rock Creek — Lost at New Washington 55-25 (Dec. 2).
North Daviess — Lost at Loogootee 43-33 (Nov. 23).
• Last 20 years: North Daviess 2-1. The Cougars have won the last 2 games vs. Rock Creek.
• Most recent meeting: Dec. 5, 2020 — At North Daviess 42, Rock Creek 17 (North Daviess Invitational semifinal).
• News and notes: Win or lose Saturday’s semifinal, the Lions would play in either the championship game or the third-place game against either Clay City (1-6) or Mitchell (6-3) at 1:30 p.m.
• John Harrell prediction: North Daviess 41, Rock Creek 40.
• Sagarin projection: Rock Creek by 2.
• Outlook: It’s going to be close, but we’ll take Rock Creek and Mitchell in the championship game.
• Greg’s pick: Rock Creek 38, North Daviess 35.

SCOTTSBURG (5-3) AT TRINITY LUTHERAN (6-0)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Trinity Lutheran H.S. (1 Trinity Way, Seymour)
• Coaches:
Scottsburg — Carrie Daniels (13-18 in second season at Scottsburg, 116-74 in seventh season overall).
Trinity Lutheran — Mike Lang (173-78 in 11th season at Trinity Lutheran).
• Rankings:
Trinity Lutheran — No. 3 ICGSA (Class A).
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
Scottsburg — No. 97, No. 24 Class 3A. 67
Trinity Lutheran — No. 186, No. 21 Class A.
• Most recent game:
Scottsburg — Lost to Corydon Central 60-40 (Dec. 2).
Trinity Lutheran — Won at Edinburgh 63-38 (Nov. 30).
• Last 20 years: First meeting.
• News and notes: Trinity Lutheran has won at least 17 games five straight seasons. They’ve won sectional titles three of the last four years.
• John Harrell prediction: Scottsburg 53, Trinity Lutheran 45.
• Sagarin projection: Scottsburg by 8.
• Outlook: This would be an easy pick if this was at Scottsburg. But with it being in Seymour, it’s tough to pick a winner.
• Greg’s pick: Scottsburg 59, Trinity Lutheran 58.

CRAWFORD COUNTY (3-7) AT CLARKSVILLE (2-6)
• Time: 2:30 p.m.
• Location: Clarksville H.S. Main Gymnasium (800 Dr. Dot Lewis Drive, Clarksville)
• Coaches:
Crawford County — Christopher Broughton (114-89 in ninth season at Crawford County).
Clarksville — Amanda Carmichael (10-22 in second season at Clarksville, 70-116 in ninth season overall).
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
Crawford County — No. 293, No. 77 Class 2A.
Clarksville — No. 364, No. 95 Class 2A.
• Most recent game:
Crawford County — Defeated Perry Central 59-31 (Dec. 2).
Clarksville — Defeated Bloomington Lighthouse 42-26 (Nov. 27).
• Last 20 years: Crawford County 12-1. The Wolfpack have won 12 straight over Clarksville.
• Most recent meeting: Dec. 5, 2020 — At Crawford County 32, Clarksville 18.
• News and notes: After starting the season 0-7, Crawford County has won three in a row. … After starting 0-3, Clarksville has won two of its last five games.
• John Harrell prediction: Crawford County 57, Clarksville 24.
• Sagarin projection: Crawford County by 15.
• Outlook: Looks like Crawford County has recovered nicely from a slow start.
• Greg’s pick: Crawford County 54, Clarksville 33.

By GREG MENGELT

SALT LAKE CITY — Romeo Langford scored 6 points in 11 minutes before suffering a right ankle sprain in the Celtics’ 137-130 loss at Utah on Friday.

Langford — a former New Albany and Indiana University star — had a driving dunk with 27 seconds left that pulled Boston within 35-25. That was his first of three straight baskets for the Celtics, who fall to 12-11 with the loss.

On the first possession of the second quarter, Langford’s layup cut the deficit to 38-27. On Boston’s next possession, his bucket got the Celtics within 41-29.

Langford left the contest with 6:02 and never returned. The Celtics announced he was done for the night during the second half. He finished 3 for 4 from the field with 2 rebounds and a steal.

After trailing the entire first half, a Robert Williams dunk gave the Celtics a 113-109 lead. Utah (15-7) responded with a 21-12 run and took control of the contest.

Former Louisville star Donovan Mitchell led the Jazz, who are third in the Western Conference — four games behind Phoenix and a half-game behind Golden State — with 34 points in 33 minutes. He also had 6 assists in the victory. Indianapolis native Mike Conley added 29 points. Six Jazz players finished in double figures.

Jayson Tatum led all scorers with 37 points. Dennis Schroeder had 26 and Al Horford 21 for Boston, which stays out west for games in Portland (Saturday), Los Angeles vs. the Lakers (Tuesday) and Clipper (Wednesday) and Phoenix (next Friday). The game vs. the Lakers is on TNT and the contest in Phoenix is on ESPN.

By GREG MENGELT

It’s Dec. 3 and Jeffersonville is one of the last teams in Indiana to take the floor.

With high expectations — and a ranking of 11th in the state — the Red Devils finally take the floor Friday in Evansville. Jeff will face Evansville North (0-1) as part of the River City Shootout at the University of Southern Indiana. It is the Hoosier Hills Hoops Game of the Night.

“I’m most excited to see where we are as a team and start the process of challenging ourselves against outside competition, so we can continue to improve and grow,” Jeff second-year head coach Andrew Grantz said.

The Red Devils, who are led by Drake recruit Will Lovings-Watts but are hardly a one-man team, are the defending 4A sectional champions and are expected to be one of the sectional and regional frontrunners.

North, which went 14-9 last season and is considered to be a program on the rise, opened its season with a 61-40 win at Princeton.

We are looking forward to opening up our season against a quality opponent that would could see in a regional matchup,” Grantz said. “Evansville North is well coached and they shoot the ball well.”

Jeff also faces Walnut Hills from Cincinnati on Saturday at 6 p.m. at the Charlestown Sports Arena.

GAME OF THE NIGHT
JEFFERSONVILLE (0-0) VS. EVANSVILLE NORTH (1-0)
• Time: 7:30 p.m. (6:30 p.m. local time).
• Event: River City Showcase.
• Location: University of Southern Indiana Screaming Eagle Arena (8600 University Blvd., Evansville).
• Coaches:
Jeffersonville — Andrew Grantz (15-7 in second season at Jeff, 103-49 in seventh season overall).
North — Jason Roach (44-52 in fifth season at North, 91-81 in eighth season overall).
• Rankings:
Jeffersonville — No. 11 IBCA (single class); No. 12 AP (Class 4A).
• Most recent game:
Jeffersonville — Lost to Bloomington South 51-50 (Class 4A Seymour Regional semifinal, March 13).
North — Won at Princeton 61-40 (Nov. 27).
• Last 20 years: Jeffersonville 5-0.
• Most recent meeting: Jan. 5 — At Jeffersonville 73, North 57.
• News and notes: Jeff went 15-7 last season. After starting 3-5, the Red Devils won 12 of their next 13 games, including a 9-game winning streak, before a heartbreaking loss to Bloomington South in the regional semifinal. … North outscored Princeton 17-4 in the the first quarter of its 21-point victory. … This is one of three games Friday at USI. Before the Jeff-North game, Vincennes (0-0) faces Reitz (0-0). The last game of the night features La Lumiere (0-0) vs. Castle (6-2) in a girls’ game.
• Outlook: North may be a program on the rise, but it would be a surprise if the Huskies stay with Jeff.
• Greg’s pick: Jeffersonville 70, North 61.

EVANSVILLE HARRISON (0-1) AT NEW ALBANY (1-1)
• Time: 8 p.m.
• Location: Doghouse, New Albany H.S. (1020 Vincennes St., New Albany)
• Coaches:
Harrison — Nathan Fleenor (60-56 in sixth season at Harrison).
New Albany — Jim Shannon (430-128 in 24th season at New Albany, 595-265 in 38th season overall).
• Most recent game:
Harrison — Lost to South Spencer 61-50 (Nov. 30).
New Albany — Lost at Bloomington South 47-37 (Nov. 27).
• Last 20 years: New Albany 13-8. The Bulldogs have won 7 straight in the series.
• Most recent meeting: Dec. 5, 2020 — New Albany 49, Harrison 31.
• Outlook: The Warriors aren’t a pushover, but New Albany should handle its business in this one.
• Greg’s pick: New Albany 69, Harrison 51.

CORYDON CENTRAL (1-1, 0-0 MSC) AT NORTH HARRISON (2-0, 0-0)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: North Harrison H.S. (1070 Hwy. 64 N.W., Ramsey)
• Coaches:
Corydon Central — Joseph Hinton (22-27 in third season at Corydon).
North Harrison — Lou Lefevre (38-10 in third season at North Harrison, 303-90 in 18th season overall).
• Rankings:
North Harrison — No. 6 AP (Class 3A).
• Most recent game:
Corydon Central — Defeated Lanesville 59-41 (Nov. 27).
North Harrison — Defeated Heritage Hills 39-25 (Nov. 27).
• Last 20 years: Corydon Central 21-13. North Harrison has won the last three rivalry games.
• Most recent meeting: Dec. 23, 2020 — North Harrison 60, at Corydon Central 37.
• Outlook: North Harrison is still the best team in Harrison County.
• Greg’s pick: North Harrison 54, Corydon Central 37.

SILVER CREEK (2-0) AT COLUMBUS NORTH (2-1)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: North H.S. (1400 25th St., Columbus)
• Coaches:
Silver Creek — Brandon Hoffman (203-73 in 12th season at Silver Creek).
Columbus North — Paul Ferguson (86-54 in seventh season, 219-109 in 14th season overall).
• Rankings:
Silver Creek — No. 4 AP (Class 3A).
• Most recent game:
Silver Creek — Defeated Charlestown 73-40 (Nov. 30).
Columbus North — Lost to Seymour 56-46 (Nov. 27).
• Last 20 years: First meeting.
• News and notes: The Dragons are being completely disrespected in both the media and coaches polls. After starting the season with wins over Columbus East and Charlestown — by a combined 45 points — the defending Class 3A champions dropped from No. 3 to No. 4 in the most recent AP poll. Silver Creek still isn’t in the top 20 of the single-class coaches poll. Interesting.
• Outlook: North is a tough place to play, but it shouldn’t be too much of an obstacle for the Dragons.
• Greg’s pick: Silver Creek 67, Columbus North 55.

PROVIDENCE (1-0) AT AUSTIN (0-2)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Rigel Gymnasium (401 S. Hwy. 31, Austin)
• Coaches:
Providence — Ryan Miller (31-16 in third season at Providence).
Austin — Randy Edwards (35-64 in fifth season at Austin).
• Rankings:
Providence — No. 34 AP (Class 2A).
• Most recent game:
Providence — Defeated Tell City 67-19 (Nov. 27).
Austin — Lost at Switzerland County 68-64 (Nov. 27).
• Last 20 years: Providence 18-4. The Pioneers have won 5 consecutive games against Austin.
• Most recent meeting: March 2 — Providence 57, Austin 55 (Class 2A Southwestern Sectional, first round).
• Outlook: Not sure what to make of a 48-point win to open the season. Not sure if it says more about Providence or Tell City. Either way, the Pioneers should go to 2-0.
• Greg’s pick: Providence 67, Austin 36.

BORDEN (1-1, 0-0 SAC) AT LANESVILLE (0-2, 0-0)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Lanesville H.S. (2725 Crestview Ave. N.E., Lanesville)
• Coaches:
Borden — Doc Nash (205-150 in 16th season at Borden).
Lanesville — Mikel Miller (287-211 in 22nd season at Lanesville).
• Most recent game:
Borden — Defeated Shoals 57-49 (Nov. 27).
Lanesville — Lost at Corydon Central 59-41 (Dec. 3).
• Last 20 years: Lanesville 15-11. The Eagles have beaten Borden 4 straight times.
• Most recent meeting: Dec. 4, 2020 — Lanesville 62, at Borden 54.
• News and notes: This is the Southern Athletic Conference opener for two teams who should be factors in the conference race. … Miller and Nash have 10 sectional titles (Miller 6, Nash 4) and three regional titles (Nash 2, Miller 1) between them.
• Outlook: Looks like the SAC is going to be hotly contested, but Lanesville appears to be a slight favorite … maybe.
• Greg’s pick: Lanesville 50, Borden 48.

SCOTTSBURG (2-0, 2-0 MSC) AT CHARLESTOWN (1-1, 0-1)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Charlestown Sports Arena, Charlestown H.S. (1 Pirate Place, Charlestown)
• Coaches:
Scottsburg — Eric Richardson (8-18 in second season at Scottsburg).
Charlestown — Matt Lynch (1-1 in first season at Charlestown, 70-51 in sixth season overall).
• Most recent game:
Scottsburg — Defeated Eastern 62-43 (Nov. 30).
Charlestown — Lost at Silver Creek 73-40 (Nov. 30).
• Last 20 years: Scottsburg 13-8. The Warriors have won the last 4 vs. Charlestown.
• Most recent meeting: March 3 — Scottsburg 60, Charlestown 54 (Class 3A Charlestown Sectional first round).
• News and notes: Scottsburg has an early lead in the MSC race, so a win over Charlestown would be big. However, the Warriors still have Corydon (Dec. 17), North Harrison (Jan. 8) and Silver Creek (Feb. 11) on their schedule.
• Outlook: It appears that Scottsburg is headed for a pretty big season.
• Greg’s pick: Scottsburg 66, Charlestown 54.

WEST WASHINGTON (0-1) AT EASTERN (1-1)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Eastern H.S. (1100 N. Eastern School Rd., Pekin)
• Coaches:
West Washington — Clayton Sullivan (39-37 in fourth season at West Washington).
Eastern — Chandler Prible (13-14 in second season Eastern).
• Most recent game:
West Washington — Lost to Salem 46-45 (Nov. 24).
Eastern — Lost at Scottsburg 62-43 (Nov. 30).
• Last 20 years: Eastern 18-16. This has been one of the most closely contested intra-county series in the state.
• Most recent meeting: Dec. 19, 2020 — Eastern 56, West Washington 38 (Washington County Invitational championship).
• News and notes: In a two-week period, the Senators and Musketeers split two meetings last year.
• Outlook: Despite an early loss at Scottsburg, the Musketeers are pretty good.
• Greg’s pick: Eastern 57, West Washington 47.

PAOLI (0-0) AT HENRYVILLE (0-1)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Furnish Gymnasium, Henryville H.S. (213 No. Ferguson St., Henryville)
• Coaches:
Paoli — Dusty Cole (143-68 in 10th season at Paoli).
Henryville — Jared Hill (91-77 in eighth season at Henryville).
• Most recent game:
Paoli — Lost at Southridge 43-35 (Class 2A Southridge Regional semifinal, March 13).
Henryville — Lost to Rock Creek 57-38 (Nov. 23).
• Last 20 years: Paoli 7-4. The Rams have won the last 6 against Henryville.
• Most recent meeting: Dec. 4, 2020 — At Paoli 52, Henryville 41.
• News and notes: The Rams, who are playing their season opener, have won at least 15 games five years in a row and won a sectional championship last season.
• Outlook: The Rams probably won’t be as good as they’ve been the last few years, but they’ll still be a tough opponent.
• Greg’s pick: Paoli 49, Henryville 40.

By GREG MENGELT

When you’re the champions, sometimes you have to travel a distance to find suitable competition.

That’s what’s happening with Silver Creek on Friday when they travel 154 miles to visit Bowling Green, Kentucky, for the Hoosier Hills Hoops Game of the Night. It’s the season opener for the Purples, who are ranked sixth in Kentucky at the start of the 2021-22.

“This game will be a great measuring stick for where we are,” Silver Creek coach Scott Schoen said.

Where the Dragons are currently is at 7-0 and proving worthy defending state champions. Silver Creek is getting strong contributions from several players, including Lacey Tingle (17.5) and Meredith Wilkinson (14.5), who combined to average 32 points per game in Mid-Southern Conference wins over previously unbeaten Corydon Central and on the road against North Harrison.

Bowling Green, who was eliminated by eventual state champion Sacred Heart in last year’s Elite 8, is led by 6-foot-1 senior LynKaylah James, who averaged 16 points and 10 rebounds last season. She was Kentucky’s 14th District Player of the Year. Meadow Tisdale and Saniyah Shelton are also Division I talents.

“It’s a game that is on the road and provides a different challenge with their size,” Schoen said.

GAME OF THE NIGHT
SILVER CREEK (7-0) AT BOWLING GREEN (KY.) (0-0)
• Time: 8 p.m.
• Event: Independence Bank Tipoff Classic.
• Location: Bowling Green, Ky.
• Coaches:
Silver Creek — Scott Schoen (162-108 in 12th season at Silver Creek).
Bowling Green — Calvin Head (no record information available).
• Rankings:
Silver Creek — No. 12 IBCA (single class); No. 3 ICGSA (Class 3A).
Bowling Green — No. 5 Kentucky.
• Most recent game:
Silver Creek — Won at North Harrison 72-44 (Nov. 24).
Bowling Green — Lost to Sacred Heart 66-54 (April 9, Sweet 16, state quarterfinal).
• Last 20 years: First meeting.
• News and notes: Silver Creek is the defending 3A state champions, unbeaten at 7-0 with only one of those games not by double figures, but the Dragons are still only ranked third in their class. The two teams rated in front of them — South Bend Washington, which Creek beat to win last year’s state title, and Mishawaka Marian — both have losses this season. … This is the season opener for Bowling Green. The Purples went 19-11, including 12-1 in its region and 7-0 in its district, last season. They reached the Elite 8 of the state tournament.
• Outlook: The Dragons beat Jeffersonville by 4 points a couple of weeks ago, but this is a different level of competition. If Silver Creek beats the Purples, the rest of Indiana should watch out.
• Greg’s pick: Bowling Green 60, Silver Creek 55.

SOUTH CENTRAL (0-4) AT TELL CITY (2-7)
• Time: 6:30 p.m.
• Location: Bryan Taylor Sports Arena, Tell City.
• Coaches:
South Central — Lynne Thomas (3-38 in third season at South Central).
Tell City — Dallas Dugan (3-21 in second season at Tell City, 62-74 in seventh season overall).
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
South Central — No. 369, No. 79 Class A.
Tell City — No. 344, No. 88 Class 2A.
• Most recent game:
South Central — Lost to Charlestown 74-9 (Nov. 20).
Tell City — Lost to Southridge 45-29 (Dec. 2).
• Last 20 years: 5-5. Tell City has won the last two times it has played South Central.
• Most recent meeting: Dec. 6, 2019 — At Tell City 53, South Central 43.
• News and notes: The Rebels are 0-4 for the fourth year in a row. … South Central and Tell City did not meet last season.
• John Harrell prediction: Tell City 50, South Central 34.
• Sagarin projection: Tell City by 14.
• News and notes: After a 2-3 start, the Marksmen have dropped four straight games. … South Central is 0-4 for the fourth year in a row.
• Outlook: The Rebels should be able to hang with Tell City.
• Greg’s pick: Tell City 38, South Central 31.

By GREG MENGELT

The Mid-Southern Conference has been one of the best league’s in Indiana this year. Not just locally and not just for its size.

One of the best. Period.

We’re a bit biased, but it’s pretty undeniable. It’s not just the top teams. Obviously, Silver Creek (7-0) and Salem (4-2) are potential state title threats and everyone knows that. It’s the next level, which includes five — and possibly six — of the conference’s nine teams where things get interesting.

Tonight, two of those teams meet in an MSC showdown. Scottsburg comes into Thursday’s Hoosier Hills Hoops Game of the Night at 5-2. Corydon is 8-1, its best start in 16 years.

The MSC has the fourth-best record in the state at 30-11 overall.

“The game is important. Not only because it’s our next game, but because it’s a conference game,” Scottsburg second-year coach Carrie Daniels said. “I think it’s fair to say that the Mid-Southern Conference is one of the toughest in the state. It’s a very competitive conference right now with quite a few teams that have the ability to compete for those top few spots.”

Corydon is led by junior Ava Weber, who is averaging 20.3 points, 3.2 rebounds, 3.3 steals and 2.4 assists. However, the Panthers are thriving because of improved guard play.

Junior Bailey Orme, senior Chloe Cannon, freshman Josie Vaughn and junior Bre Edwards have helped take the Panthers to another level and accomplish the team’s hot start. Orme is averaging 10.7 points and Vaughn is at 8.8 through nine games. The group averages 9 steals per game.

“Our guard play with Bailey, Chloe, Josie, and Bre has continued to get better each game,” Conrad said. “When they are aggressive, it adds another element to our team.”

“They’re coming in with a lot of confidence, playing very well,” Daniels said of the Panthers. “They’re just solid from top to bottom. They play extremely hard, they anticipate well and they’ve got some young kids who have come in, and watching them on the court, do not play like freshmen. So just a well rounded team that we’re going to have to be ready, right from the tip, to play and defend and compete.”

Scottsburg comes in with five wins in their last six games. The lone defeat was a 64-60 loss to North Harrison two weeks ago.

“I think our team unity is good,” Daniels said. “They truly get along and want to become a better team. It’s not always perfect, we still make mistakes and they’re giving good effort and they’re going out there and competing and that makes a world of difference. … We’ve played decent. So much to still work on and get better at.”

The Warriorettes doesn’t have a standout like Weber, but they three players who average double figures and another at 9.9 per contest.

“Scottsburg is a team that has several players who can fill up the stat sheet and they do a good job defensively forcing teams into tough shots,” Conrad said.

GAME OF THE NIGHT
CORYDON CENTRAL (8-1, 1-1 MSC) AT SCOTTSBURG (5-2, 1-1)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Charles E. Meyer Gymnasium, Scottsburg.
• Coaches:
Corydon Central — Josh Conrad (18-12 in second season at Corydon, 137-105 in 11th season overall).
Scottsburg — Carrie Daniels (13-17 in second season at Scottsburg, 116-73 in seventh season overall).
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
Corydon Central — No. 72, No. 20 Class 3A. 72
Scottsburg — No. 97, No. 24 Class 3A.
• Most recent game:
Corydon Central — Defeated Vincennes 53-40 (Nov. 27).
Scottsburg — Defeated Brownstown Central 60-53 (Nov. 26).
• Last 20 years: Scottsburg 12-10. The Warriorettes have won seven of the last eight vs. Corydon.
• Most recent meeting: Dec. 19, 2020 — At Corydon Central 62, Scottsburg 57.
• John Harrell prediction: Corydon Central 50, Scottsburg 43.
• Sagarin projection: Corydon Central by 1.
• Outlook: Even on the road, Corydon is probably the better team … but it’s pretty close.
• Greg’s pick: Corydon Central 61, Scottsburg 53.

NORTH HARRISON (6-3) AT NEW ALBANY (4-4)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Doghouse, New Albany H.S.
• Coaches:
North Harrison — Jamie Kolkmeier (18-9 in second season at North Harrison).
New Albany — Shelby Gliebe (10-20 in second season at New Albany, 14-39 in third season overall).
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
North Harrison — No. 110, No. 28 Class 3A.
New Albany — No. 123, No. 60 Class 4A.
• Most recent game:
North Harrison — Won at Jasper 45-25 (Nov. 30).
New Albany — Lost to Bloomington North 64-61 (Nov. 23).
• Last 20 years: North Harrison 11-9. The Lady Cats have won seven of the last eight in the series.
• Most recent meeting: Dec. 3, 2020 — At North Harrison 53, New Albany 51.
• John Harrell prediction: New Albany 49, North Harrison 47.
• Sagarin projection: New Albany by 2.
• Outlook: North Harrison is playing well and is a couple baskets from being 7-1.
• Greg’s pick: North Harrison 51, New Albany 48.

PROVIDENCE (1-5) AT EASTERN (4-2)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Eastern H.S., Pekin.
• Coaches:
Providence — Brad Burden (160-153 in 14th season at Providence).
Eastern — Michael McBride (223-117 in 15th season at Eastern).
• Rankings:
Eastern — No. 9 ICGSA (Class 2A).
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
Providence — No. 343, No. 87 Class 2A. 29
Eastern — No. 115, No. 21 Class 2A.
• Most recent game:
Providence — Won at Christian Academy 48-22 (Nov. 30).
Eastern — Won at Floyd Central 41-33 (Nov. 24).
• Last 20 years: Eastern 12-6. The Musketeers have beaten Providence four straight times.
• Most recent meeting: Jan. 19 — Eastern 41, at Providence 25.
• John Harrell prediction: Eastern 58, Providence 17.
• Sagarin projection: Eastern by 40.
• Outlook: Eastern has taken control of a series that went back and forth winning the local 2A sectional championships with both making deep runs, including Eastern’s state championship in 2017.
• Greg’s pick: Eastern 58, Providence 28.

ROCK CREEK (5-2) AT NEW WASHINGTON (3-4)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: James Matthews Gymnasium (a.k.a. The Jim), New Washington H.S.
• Coaches:
Rock Creek — Sara Nord (7-11 in second season at Rock Creek).
New Washington — Kirsti Holloway (58-87 in seventh season at New Wash).
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
Rock Creek — No. 307, No. 55 Class A.
New Washington — No. 197, No. 24 Class A.
• Most recent game:
Rock Creek — Defeated Louisville Collegiate 39-36 (Nov. 30).
New Washington — Lost at Borden 56-52 (Nov. 30).
• Last 20 years: New Washington 20-0.
• Most recent meeting: Dec. 3, 2020 — New Washington 63, Rock Creek 31.
• News & notes: Rock Creek is currently 5-2 — having won five of its last six games — after 3 wins the last two seasons combined. … New Wash has been 3-4 through 7 games five years in a row.
• John Harrell prediction: New Washington 56, Rock Creek 37.
• Sagarin projection: New Washington by 23.
• Outlook: What Rock Creek has done so far is impressive. If the Lions are able to beat New Wash, that would be a big statement.
• Greg’s pick: New Washington 47, Rock Creek 31.

HENRYVILLE (2-3, 0-0 SAC) AT LANESVILLE (8-1, 0-0)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Lanesville H.S.
• Coaches:
Henryville — Tuesday Guernsey (17-30 in third season at Henryville).
Lanesville — Angie Hinton (70-16 in fourth season at Lanesville, 243-89 in 15th season overall).
• Rankings:
Lanesville — No. 1 ICGSA (Class A).
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
Henryville — No. 312, No. 79 Class 2A.
Lanesville — No. 75, No. 2 Class A.
• Most recent game:
Henryville — Lost at Switzerland County 52-21 (Nov. 13).
Lanesville — Defeated Perry Central 60-21 (Nov. 27).
• Last 20 years: Lanesville 18-13. The Eagles have won the last three against Henryville.
• Most recent meeting: Dec. 3, 2020 — Lanesville 69, at Henryville 11.
• News & notes: This is the 2021-22 SAC debut for both teams.
• John Harrell prediction: Lanesville 60, Henryville 14.
• Sagarin projection: Lanesville by 41.
• Outlook: Since losing its only game — 44-34 to Corydon — Lanesville has outscored its four opponents 239-52. That’s eye-opening.
• Greg’s pick: Lanesville 61, Henryville 25.

SALEM (4-2) AT PAOLI (3-3)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Paoli H.S.
• Coaches:
Salem — Jerry Hickey (141-67 in ninth season at Salem).
Paoli — Donavan Crews (13-9 in second season at Paoli).
• Rankings:
Salem — No. 9 ICGSA (Class 3A), received votes IBCA (single class).
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
Salem — No. 57, No. 10 Class 3A.
Paoli — No. 181, No. 38 Class 2A.
• Most recent game:
Salem — Lost at Brownsburg 56-50 (Nov. 27).
Paoli — Defeated Shoals 57-25 (Nov. 23).
• Last 20 years: Paoli 11-7. Salem has won the last 5 games against the Rams.
• Most recent meeting: Dec. 5, 2019 — Salem 79, at Paoli 19.
• News & notes: The Lions and Rams did not play each other last season.
• John Harrell prediction: Salem 59, Paoli 40.
• Sagarin projection: Salem by 16.
• Outlook: Paoli isn’t bad but isn’t on the same level as the Lions.
• Greg’s pick: Salem 63, Paoli 42.

CHRISTIAN ACADEMY (2-7) AT PORTLAND CHRISTIAN (KY.) (1-0)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Portland Christian School, Louisville.
• Coaches:
CAI — Carson Casey (10-42 in third season at CAI).
Portland Christian — Jason Bragg (no record information).
• Most recent game:
CAI — Lost to Providence 48-22 (Nov. 30).
Portland Christian — Defeated Waggener 56-17 (Nov. 30).
• Last 20 years: Portland Christian 1-0.
• Most recent meeting: Jan. 5 — Portland Christian 45, at CAI 19.
• News & notes: After an 0-5 start, CAI has won in two of its last four outings. … Portland Christian went 15-9 last season, including 4-4 in Kentucky Region 7 play.
• Outlook: The Eagles look like they’re going to be really good this season.
• Greg’s pick: Portland Christian 50, Christian Academy 26.

MITCHELL (5-3) AT WEST WASHINGTON (5-2)
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Tower Gymnasium, West Washington H.S., Campbellsburg.
• Coaches:
Mitchell — Tim Haworth (16-17 in second season at Mitchell).
West Washington — Matthew Myers (13-17 in second season at West Washington).
• Computer-based Sagarin Ratings:
Mitchell — No. 167, No. 33 Class 2A.
West Washington — No. 280, No. 44 Class A.
• Most recent game:
Mitchell — Won at Brown County 57-41 (Nov. 30).
West Washington — Defeated Crothersville 52-26 (Nov. 23).
• Last 20 years: Mitchell 19-1. The Bluejackets have beaten West Washington three straight times they’ve met.
• Most recent meeting: Dec. 3, 2020 — At Mitchell 44, West Washington 39.
• John Harrell prediction: Mitchell 49, West Washignton 30.
• Sagarin projection: Mitchell by 14.
• Outlook: The Bluejackets should have their best season since going 15-6 in 2012-13.
• Greg’s pick: Mitchell 47, West Washington 39.

By GREG MENGELT

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — Josh Jefferson scored 5 points and Middle Tennessee beat in-state rival UT Martin 73-61 Wednesday for their fourth win in a row.

Jefferson, who helped lead New Albany to the 2016 state championship, also had 5 rebounds as the Blue Raiders won for the seventh time in eight games. The Middle Tennessee senior was 2 for 7, including 1 for 5 from behind the 3-point line, in 15 minutes.

Sophomore Eli Lawrence had a game-high 19 points for the Blue Raiders, who were 13 of 16 from the free throw line in the win. Senior guard Donovan Sims added 15 and sophomore forward Tyler Millin finished with 11 points off the bench for Middle Tennessee.

The Raiders trailed 6-1 early, but Jefferson’s 3-pointer pulled his team within 2 points with 15:55 left in the first half. Jefferson then gave Middle Tennessee an 11-9 advantage with a layup at the 11:37 mark.

Middle Tennessee led 34-27 at halftime and led by as many as 16 after Millin’s 3-pointer with 1:05 to go.

UT Martin (3-5) was led by Darius Simmons, who had 17 points in defeat.

Middle Tennessee gets a true road test Saturday when it visits Murray State at 8 p.m. Jefferson and the Raiders can be seen taking on the 6-1 Racers, who have won three straight, on ESPN Plus.