Preview: Cuyamaca Coyotes at Cypress Chargers

CYPRESS, Calif. (Interstat) — A pair of California community college men’s basketball teams trending in opposite directions will meet Friday when the Cypress Chargers host the Cuyamaca Coyotes.

The non-conference matchup tips off at 7 p.m. at Cypress College. Admission is $5, cash only.

Cypress (5-3) enters having won three of its last four, including a 63-49 victory over Los Angeles Trade Tech on Dec. 7. The Chargers are led by forward Michael Wright, who is averaging a double-double. Wright is coming off a 17-point, 11-rebound performance and has recorded double-doubles in four of his last five games, including a 27-point, 11-rebound effort in a narrow 56-55 loss to San Diego City on Dec. 6.

The Cuyamaca Coyotes (4-4) look to snap a two-game skid after falling 77-70 at home to Santa Ana on Dec. 3. The Coyotes have struggled for consistency, alternating wins and losses for much of the early season. Their victories have been tight, with three of their four wins coming by five points or fewer.

The Chargers’ recent form has been bolstered by a more balanced attack. Alongside Wright, Amaan Zavahir (14 points) and Jack Rivera (11 points) provided key scoring in the win over Trade Tech.

For Cuyamaca, finding an answer for Wright in the paint will be a primary concern. The Coyotes’ path to an upset likely depends on controlling the tempo and limiting second-chance opportunities for the Chargers’ standout forward.

This game serves as a final tune-up for both squads before a brief holiday break. Cypress will travel to face Los Angeles Valley on Dec. 17, while Cuyamaca visits San Diego Miramar the same day.