WINTER HAVEN, Fla. (Interstat) — The Polk State Eagles will open their 2025-26 men’s junior college basketball season at home against the USC Salkehatchie Indians on Friday, Oct. 31.

Both teams enter the contest with 0-0 records, looking to start the new campaign with a victory. The game marks the official debut for both programs after lengthy layoffs. USC Salkehatchie last played on March 25, 2024, falling 96-82 at Hutchinson. Polk State’s most recent result was a 75-60 home loss to Eastern Florida State on March 4, 2024.

The non-conference matchup will serve as a season-opening test for each squad. For the visiting Indians, the game is the first of a challenging two-game Florida road trip, as they are scheduled to face Daytona State on Saturday. The Eagles will also hit the road for their next contest, traveling to face Wake Tech on Saturday.

The Friday night tip-off at Polk State will provide the first look at new rotations and strategies for both teams. With no current season data available, the contest is expected to be a battle of preparation and early-season execution as the Eagles and Indians shake off the offseason rust.