NICEVILLE, Fla. (Interstat) — The Northwest Florida State Raiders will open their 2025-26 men’s basketball season on Saturday when they host the Baton Rouge Bears in the Raider Classic.

The Raiders, who last played in a March 2024 contest, enter the season unranked and look to build on a fresh campaign. They are considered strong favorites, with the Interstat ELO system projecting a 67.3% probability of a home victory.

Baton Rouge (0-1) arrives looking to rebound from a season-opening 79-46 road loss to East Mississippi on Friday. The Bears will need a more potent offensive performance after being held under 50 points in their first outing.

This matchup serves as the starting point for a challenging non-conference slate for both junior college programs. Following this contest, Northwest Florida State will prepare for a quick turnaround, hosting Lawson State on Nov. 7. Baton Rouge’s next game isn’t until Nov. 13 when they host Holmes.

Tipoff is set for Saturday at Raider Arena.