Preview: Volunteer State Pioneers at Calhoun Warhawks

DECATUR, Ala. (Interstat) — Two men’s junior college basketball teams seeking consistency will meet Saturday when the Volunteer State Pioneers visit the Calhoun Warhawks.

The non-conference matchup, scheduled for Dec. 13, 2025, features teams with combined records of 5-9. Volunteer State enters at 3-5 overall, while Calhoun sits at 2-4.

The Pioneers are looking to rebound from a 101-68 road loss to Walters State on Nov. 22, their most recent result. In that game, Maxwell Moore scored 17 points with seven rebounds and four assists, and Jamal Nero added 20 points. Volunteer State’s season has been streaky, with wins over Lincoln Trail, Motlow State and Southwest Tennessee, but also several lopsided defeats.

Calhoun is coming off its most impressive performance, an 81-61 home victory over Motlow State on Monday. A player to watch for the Warhawks is Masiah Robinson, who was among the team’s most productive players in that win. Calhoun’s other victory this season was a 93-89 result against Pellissippi State on Nov. 22.

Both teams have struggled defensively at times. Volunteer State has allowed 80 or more points in five of its eight games. Calhoun has surrendered an average of 88.5 points in its four losses but showed improved defense in Monday’s win.

This game serves as a precursor to a quick rematch, as the Warhawks are scheduled to travel to face the Pioneers on Jan. 3, 2026.

For Volunteer State, establishing an early rhythm on the road will be critical. For Calhoun, building on the momentum of its decisive last outing is the primary objective. The team that can control the tempo and limit scoring runs will likely gain the upper hand in this inter-regional clash.

Tip-off is set for Saturday at Calhoun’s home venue.