The Red Ravens take the basketball court for the first time in 2025, traveling to El Dorado for a matchup with the Butler Grizzlies.

 

Both matchups loom large in the landscape of the conference, with the Butler and CCC women's teams tied for third place in the league, while the Butler men's team holds a one game lead over Coffeyville for second place.

 

Lady Raven Coach Tony Turner says this is a huge matchup for both teams.

 

Butler and Coffeyville have been one of the conference's best rivalries for many years, and that includes in the coach's seat. Turner says Butler Coach Mike Helmer is one of the best in the business.

 

The Butler men are led by first year head coach Eric Nitsche, who has the team off to a 12-1 start and ranked No. 5 in the nation. Head Coach Jay Herkelman says Nitsche has done a fantastic job so far.

 

Butler has plenty of talent at both the guard spots, and with their interior defense down low. Herkelman says, however, one thing that's different this time around is the crowd at the Power Plant.

 

Coverage of Coffeyville and Butler begins tomorrow afternoon at 1:30 p.m. with tip of the first game at 2 on US 98.