Lions and Bobcats Clash Again in the BIT Tonight In Benton

The Carterville Lions return to the hardwood tonight as they face the Meridian Bobcats in Benton Invitational Tournament action. Tip-off is set for 6:00 PM, with pregame coverage beginning at 5:45 PM on NewsRadio WJPF. It’s a familiar matchup with plenty on the line as the Lions look to punch their ticket deeper into the tournament bracket.

The Carterville Lions carried strong momentum into the Benton Invitational after a hard-fought win over Murphysboro last Saturday night. Carterville delivered in winning time, executing down the stretch and answering every Red Devils run in the final minutes winning 60-56. The Lions showed poise, toughness, and composure late, making key stops on defense and knocking down timely shots to secure the victory. It was a statement win that highlighted Carterville’s ability to close games and thrive under pressure—exactly the kind of confidence boost you want heading into tournament play.

These two teams last met on January 6, when Carterville controlled the game and came away with a convincing 62–48 win over Meridian. The Lions set the tone early in that contest and never looked back, using balanced scoring and steady defense to keep the Bobcats at arm’s length. Tonight offers Meridian a chance at redemption, while Carterville aims to prove that result was no fluke.

The stakes are clear in this tournament format. A win tonight sends the Lions to the Benton Invitational semi-finals, scheduled for Friday night at 7:30 PM. Survive and advance is the motto, and Carterville knows one strong performance can put them one step away from a championship appearance.

A loss, however, does not end the run. The losing team will return to action Thursday night at 7:30 PM, facing the loser of the Hamilton County vs. Vandalia matchup. With a quick turnaround and another tough opponent looming, every possession tonight carries extra weight.

Fans planning to follow along should note there will be no video livestream of tonight’s game. Coverage will be radio-only, with Dave McKenzie and John Homan providing the call on NewsRadio WJPF. It’s tournament basketball under the lights in Benton, and the Lions are ready to roar when the ball goes up.

Roar Lions Roar!