COPPER MOUNTAIN, Calif. (Interstat) — The Palomar Comets and Copper Mountain Fighting Cacti will open their 2025-26 men’s junior college basketball seasons on Saturday when they face off in a non-conference matchup.

Both teams enter the contest with 0-0 records, looking for a fresh start after concluding their previous seasons with losses. Palomar last played on Feb. 26, 2025, falling 101-66 at San Bernardino Valley. Copper Mountain’s most recent result was an 88-89 road loss to Barstow on Feb. 19, 2025.

The game will serve as the season opener for both California community college programs. According to Interstat’s game simulator, the Comets are projected for a high-scoring victory, with a predicted final score of 142-100.

For Palomar, this game begins a challenging early schedule. Following Saturday’s contest, the Comets will hit the road for games at Victor Valley on Nov. 4 and Mount San Jacinto on Nov. 15.

Copper Mountain will look to defend its home court before a 14-day break. The Fighting Cacti’s next game is scheduled for Nov. 15 when they host Los Angeles Pierce.

Tip-off is set for Saturday at Copper Mountain College.