TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (Interstat) — A surging Gulf Coast State squad hosts a Miami Dade team seeking a statement win when the men’s junior college basketball programs meet Saturday.

The Commodores (9-1) have been one of the state’s top teams early, riding a potent offense that has topped 90 points four times. Their lone loss was a narrow 71-68 defeat to Daytona State on Nov. 25. They are coming off a tight 74-72 road win over Florida Southwestern State on Wednesday, led by standout guard Trent Lincoln.

Lincoln has been exceptional, averaging 22.2 points and 6.6 assists over his last five full games. He played all 40 minutes and finished with 21 points and eight assists in the most recent victory.

“We have to match their intensity from the jump,“ Miami Dade coach said. “They’re a veteran group that plays well together, especially at home.“

The visiting Sharks (2-1) have won two straight since a season-opening loss, including a 77-70 win over Central Georgia last Sunday. Their success has been fueled by forward Leeroy Nijean, who is averaging a double-double over the last two contests with 10 points and 11.5 rebounds per game. Ernesto Rodriguez added a team-high 23 points in the last outing.

Gulf Coast State’s depth has been key, with contributors like Aiden Caulker and Iyran Francis providing support around Lincoln. The Commodores’ schedule has been rigorous, with the win over Florida Southwestern State marking another quality result.

Miami Dade will look to control the tempo and rebound effectively to slow the Commodores’ high-powered attack. A road win would significantly boost the Sharks’ early-season profile.

The game tips off at 4 p.m. EST on Saturday, Dec. 6, in Tallahassee.