Preview: San Diego Miramar Jets at Irvine Valley Lasers

IRVINE, Calif. (Interstat) — The Irvine Valley men’s basketball team, boasting one of the stronger starts in the state, will look to continue its winning ways when it hosts the .500 San Diego Miramar Jets in a non-conference junior college matchup Saturday.

The Lasers (7-3) enter on a two-game win streak, including an 80-64 road victory over Monterey Peninsula last Saturday. They have won four of their last five, with the lone loss coming at Sierra (75-60) on Dec. 4.

A key catalyst for Irvine Valley has been forward Matt Mowers. Over his last six games, Mowers is averaging 16.3 points and 6.8 rebounds per contest. He is coming off a 15-point, 6-rebound performance in a win at Hartnell and recorded a 25-point, 14-rebound double-double in the loss to Sierra.

The visiting Jets (4-4) have been idle since a 59-54 home loss to Fullerton on Dec. 3. That defeat snapped a two-game win streak for Miramar, which had previously earned victories over Victor Valley (71-67) and Rio Hondo (91-57). The Jets have struggled on the road this season, posting a 2-3 record away from home.

This contest represents the final tune-up for both teams before a brief holiday break. Irvine Valley will travel to face Mount San Antonio on Dec. 19, while Miramar next hosts Cuyamaca on Dec. 17.

Historically, the Lasers have shown a potent offense, scoring 78 points or more in four games this season. The Jets have demonstrated scoring ability as well, putting up 86 and 91 points in games earlier this November, but have also been held under 65 points in three of their four losses.

Defensive consistency will be a focus for Miramar, which aims to slow down Mowers and a balanced Irvine Valley attack. The Lasers, meanwhile, will seek to protect their home court, where they are 2-1 this season.

Saturday’s tip-off is set for 5 p.m. at Irvine Valley College.