Games 17 & 18:
 
vs. #25 Missouri Western 12-3 (6-3 MIAA)
Thursday, January 18, 2024 | 7:30 PM | St. Joseph, MO (MWSU Fieldhouse)
Audio: none | Video: MIAA Network | Stats
 
vs #24/#19 Northwest Missouri State 11-4 (7-2 MIAA)
Sunday, December 17, 2023 | 3:30 PM | Maryville, MO (Bearcat Arena)
Audio: none | Video: MIAA Network | Stats
 
Last Time Out
The Jets fell behind early against Northeastern State, but rebounded and overcame a big deficit in the first half.

The two teams traded blows with each other for the remainder of the game, with the RiverHawks going on a big run to end the game.

The Jets brought it within four several times, but the late shots just would not fall as the Jets lost a close one, 74-68. 
Box Score | Recap
 
MIAA Standings Report
A four game losing streak has put the Jets out of the top ten in the MIAA with a large amount of the conference season still to play for. With a 6-9 record overall and the Jets going 3-7 in the MIAA.

Northwest Missouri State still leads at the top of the standings, despite losing to Missouri Western for just the first time since 2013.

Missouri Western is not too far behind the Bearcats, with just one game separating the two.

The Jets can get back into the thick of things if they pick up a win or two this weekend, as about four other teams are within Newman's record and are fighting for a tournament spot.

Behind Enemy Lines
Missouri Western comes into Thursday with a #25 ranking in the NABC poll. The ranking is their second of the season, coming off of their win over Northwest Missouri State; the first time the Griffons had defeated their rivals down the road in over a decade.

The Griffons are currently on the longest winning streak in the MIAA, winning the last four games.

Northwest Missouri State enters with a #24 ranking in the NABC poll and a #19 ranking in the D2CSC poll. The Bearcats, who have had some surprise losses so far this season, are still the top team to beat in the MIAA.

The Bearcats are in the top ten in the country in several statistical categories, including having the fourth best defense at the Division II level, allowing just 60.6 points per game.

The Series
The Jets are 2-3 all time against Missouri Western. Until last season, the Jets had never beaten the Griffons, but won both home and away to get the season sweep.

Since joining the MIAA, the Jets are 0-4 all time against Northwest Missouri State. The Jets have only played at Bearcat arena once before their encounter this weekend.

Upcoming Attractions
The Jets will be back in Fugate for their next three conference games, hosting Central Oklahoma, Missouri Southern and Pittsburg State.