MOBILE, Ala. (Interstat) — A surging Gulf Coast State squad riding a nine-game winning streak will face a Bishop State team seeking a signature victory when the men’s junior college basketball teams meet Friday night.

The Commodores (12-1), whose only loss came by three points to Daytona State on Nov. 25, have been dominant during their run. They are averaging 92.4 points per game in that span, including a 106-78 rout of Southern Union State in their most recent outing on Dec. 31. Gulf Coast State’s balanced attack has consistently overwhelmed opponents, with seven wins during the streak coming by 13 points or more.

The host Wildcats (3-7), however, have shown recent resilience despite their record. They took a strong Chipola team to the wire in a 64-61 loss on Monday. Bishop State’s fortunes often hinge on the performance of guard Vophcy Prophete, who is coming off a season-high 21-point effort in 38 minutes against Chipola. In his last five games, Prophete is averaging 13.8 points, 3.6 rebounds and 1.8 assists.

Bishop State’s three wins have all come at home, including decisive victories over Delgado and Southern-Shreveport in December. Containing Gulf Coast State’s high-powered offense, which has topped 100 points four times this season, will be the Wildcats’ primary challenge.

For Gulf Coast State, this contest opens a critical January stretch in Mobile before returning home to host Chipola on Jan. 14. Bishop State looks to build momentum before hosting Wallace State on Jan. 15.

Tip-off is set for Friday at Bishop State’s home court.