Pacific Union (CA) vs Cal Maritime

VALLEJO, Calif. (Interstat) — The Cal Maritime Keelhaulers will look to even their season record and complete a regular-season sweep when they host the winless Pacific Union Pioneers in a men’s NAIA basketball game Saturday at the PE Center.

The Keelhaulers (3-3) narrowly defeated the Pioneers (0-7) 79-73 in the teams’ first meeting on Dec. 17. Cal Maritime has not played since that victory, a 33-day layoff that will test their rhythm. In that December contest, Cal Maritime was led by Lawrence Long (17 points, 5 rebounds) and Ivan Soto (13 points, 4 rebounds).

Pacific Union, still searching for its first win, enters on a seven-game skid, most recently a 73-58 loss at Westcliff on Jan. 8. The Pioneers will lean on forward Isaiah Harper, who is coming off a strong double-double performance of 15 points and 10 rebounds in a Jan. 1 loss to Simpson and grabbed 11 rebounds against Westcliff.

Cal Maritime’s season has been marked by inconsistency, with wins over Life Pacific and La Sierra alongside losses to Bushnell and Corban. Their extended break could either provide rest or rust as they aim to build momentum before a road game at Simpson on Jan. 21.

For Pacific Union, the schedule offers little respite. After this contest, they face a rematch at Simpson on Jan. 24. Containing Cal Maritime’s balanced scoring, which featured three players in double figures in the previous matchup, will be a primary concern for a Pioneers defense that has allowed an average of 81.7 points per game this season.

The Keelhaulers have shown an ability to close out tight games, as evidenced by their earlier win over Pacific Union, and will be favored at home. The Pioneers, however, have proven they can keep pace with Cal Maritime and will aim to translate a competitive performance into a breakthrough victory.

Tipoff is set for Saturday afternoon in Vallejo.