HEMPSTEAD, Texas (Interstat) — A tight SWAC race brings a rematch to the William Nicks Building on Saturday as the Prairie View A&M Panthers host the Southern Jaguars.

The Panthers (9-15) edged the Jaguars (11-13) 89-85 in their first meeting on Jan. 5, adding another chapter to a competitive series. Both teams enter this Valentine’s Day clash looking to build momentum for the conference tournament.

Southern arrives with a recent surge, winning three of its last four games, including a dramatic 69-68 victory over Alabama State on Monday. The Jaguars are led by versatile forward DaMariee Jones, who is averaging 14.0 points and 5.6 rebounds over his last seven contests. His recent performances include a 20-point outing in an overtime win at Jackson State and a 13-point, 14-rebound double-double against Mississippi Valley State.

Prairie View seeks to halt a two-game skid after a high-scoring 100-96 loss at Florida A&M. The Panthers’ offense runs through guard Tai’Reon Joseph, a dynamic scorer capable of explosive nights. He poured in 32 points in that loss to the Rattlers and had 31 in a win over Texas Southern on Jan. 31. However, his production has been inconsistent, scoring eight or fewer points in three of his last six games.

The matchup inside will be critical. Southern’s Terrance Dixon, who blocked eight shots against Alabama State, will anchor the Jaguars’ defense. Prairie View will counter with the scoring of Dontae Horne, who had 27 points in the last outing.

With both teams clustered in the mid-standings of the SWAC, this game carries significant weight for seeding. Southern aims to avenge its earlier loss and continue its positive trend, while Prairie View hopes to defend its home court and rediscover its winning form behind Joseph’s offensive firepower.

Tipoff is set for Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026, in Hempstead.