Preview: Lemoore Golden Eagles at San Jose Jaguars

SAN JOSE, Calif. (Interstat) — The San Jose City College Jaguars look to get back to .500 when they host the Lemoore College Golden Eagles in a California community college men’s basketball matchup on Thursday, Dec. 11.

The Jaguars (5-5) enter on a two-game skid, most recently falling 57-52 at Modesto on Dec. 5. They will rely on forward Taj Royster, who has been a dominant force. Royster is coming off a 19-point, 8-rebound, 3-block performance in a narrow 80-76 loss to Fresno City on Dec. 2. He exploded for 37 points and 9 rebounds in a win over Barstow on Nov. 23. Containing him will be a primary challenge for Lemoore.

The Golden Eagles (2-4) seek to halt a three-game losing streak. They are coming off a 64-80 loss at Ventura on Nov. 22, where Davion Jackson led the team with 13 points. Lemoore’s season has been inconsistent, featuring a 116-point offensive outburst in a win over Palo Verde on Nov. 20, but also several double-digit road losses.

San Jose holds the edge in record and will play at home, where they are 3-2 this season. Lemoore is 0-3 in true road games. The Jaguars’ offense, when fueled by Royster, has shown high-scoring potential, while Lemoore has struggled defensively, allowing an average of 81 points in its four losses.

This non-conference game serves as a final tune-up for both teams before busy December schedules. San Jose hosts Sequoias on Friday, while Lemoore travels to face Hartnell.

Tip-off is set for Thursday night at San Jose City College.