DYERSBURG, Tenn. (Interstat) — The Dyersburg State Eagles will look to secure their first win of the season when they host the Shawnee Saints in a men’s junior college basketball game on Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026.

The Eagles (0-9) enter the contest still searching for a victory after a 90-77 home loss to Shelton State on Dec. 18. Cameron Stephen led the way in that defeat, scoring 23 points in 39 minutes. Bryce Scurlark added 16 points and Emmanuel Okogie contributed 9 points, 7 rebounds and 3 blocks.

Dyersburg State’s winless start has been marked by narrow defeats and defensive struggles. They fell in overtime to Pellissippi State, 91-88, on Nov. 8 and lost a high-scoring affair to Northwest Mississippi, 108-96, on Nov. 4. The Eagles have allowed an average of 90.2 points per game this season.

They face a Shawnee squad (3-2) coming off a strong 82-70 home victory over Southwestern Illinois on Dec. 10. The Saints’ offense was fueled by a balanced attack in that win, with Derek Shepard scoring 21 points, Zion Greene adding 15 points and 6 assists, and Alan King Jr. posting 13 points and 6 rebounds.

The Saints have experienced some early-season inconsistency, with their two losses coming by a combined four points to Three Rivers and Itawamba. Their offense, however, has shown potency, averaging 74.4 points per game.

This matchup is a rematch of the season opener for both teams, played on Oct. 31, 2025, in Shawnee. The Saints won that game 74-65. In that contest, Dyersburg State kept it close but ultimately fell short, a pattern that has persisted throughout their difficult first two months.

For the Eagles, Saturday represents a critical opportunity to break their skid and build momentum before opening conference play on Jan. 7 against Southwest Tennessee. The Saints, aiming for a winning record, will view this as a must-win game before a daunting stretch that includes a road game at national power Vincennes on Jan. 7.

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