Main Story

Northwest Missouri State opens its 2026-27 men’s basketball season at home Monday against William Jewell. The Bearcats will look to build on a 15-16 campaign and reverse last season’s 74-65 loss to the Cardinals.

By the Numbers
  • Monday, Nov. 9, at 7:30 p.m. CT, in Bearcat Arena in Maryville, Missouri.
  • Northwest leads the all-time series, 27-16.
  • The Bearcats have won 8 of their last 10 season openers.
  • Seven players return from last season’s team, which finished 15-16 overall and 8-11 in the MIAA.
  • Northwest was picked to finish 10th in both MIAA preseason polls.
Yes, But

Northwest has a strong home-court history, but its recent records are less reassuring: the program lists a 0-10 home mark in 2024-25 and a 5-6 mark in 2025-26. The Bearcats also lost their most recent meeting with William Jewell.

What’s Next

Monday’s matchup gives Northwest an early chance to test its returning core and start the season with a home win. Head coach Matt Keeley enters his third year after guiding the team to a nine-win improvement and an MIAA Tournament berth last season.

Bottom Line

The Bearcats have the historical edge and open at home, but they’ll need to turn those advantages into a stronger start after last season’s losing record and loss to William Jewell.