SOUTHERN IDAHO, CENTRAL ARIZONA SET FOR JUNIOR COLLEGE SHOWDOWN

COOLIDGE, Ariz. (Interstat) — A surging Southern Idaho men’s basketball team looks to continue its strong start when it visits a struggling Central Arizona squad on Saturday.

The Eagles (8-1) enter the non-conference junior college matchup riding high after a 69-55 road victory at Yavapai on Friday. Their lone loss came a week ago against Odessa. The Vaqueros (3-5), meanwhile, are looking to rebound from a heartbreaking 88-87 home loss to Colorado Northwestern on Friday.

Southern Idaho has established itself with a balanced attack and stout defense, holding opponents to an average of 66.2 points in its eight wins. A key catalyst is guard Ace Reiser, who is coming off an 18-point, five-rebound, five-assist performance in the loss to Odessa. Over his last four games, Reiser is averaging 12.5 points, 6.3 rebounds and 4.8 assists.

Central Arizona’s season has been marked by inconsistency. After a season-opening win, the Vaqueros dropped four straight before securing a victory over Hagerstown and a road win at Salt Lake. Their defense has been a concern, allowing an average of 81.6 points in their five losses.

The Eagles won the earlier meeting this season handily, defeating Yavapai 66-48 on Oct. 31. Central Arizona has not faced Southern Idaho this year.

According to Interstat’s ELO system, Southern Idaho is projected with a 55.70 percent probability to win Saturday’s contest.

Following this game, Southern Idaho travels to face Eastern Arizona on Monday. Central Arizona begins a three-game homestand on Tuesday against Dawson.

Tip-off is set for Saturday at Central Arizona’s facility.