Tyler vs Angelina

ANGELINA, Texas (Interstat) — Two men’s junior college basketball teams looking to build momentum will meet Saturday when the Angelina Roadrunners host the Tyler Apaches.

The Roadrunners (6-6) enter the contest seeking to end a three-game skid, most recently a 55-42 road loss to Panola on Wednesday. Angelina’s last win was an 87-79 victory at Bossier Parish on Dec. 13.

A key player for Angelina is guard Jordan Mathews, who has been a consistent contributor. He posted 17 points, seven rebounds and three assists in a narrow 61-58 loss to Paris on Jan. 3. In the win over Bossier Parish, he nearly recorded a triple-double with 11 points, eight rebounds and five assists.

The visiting Tyler Apaches (3-5) are coming off their most impressive performance of the season, a 91-71 home victory over Bossier Parish on Wednesday. That win snapped a two-game losing streak for Tyler, which had previously fallen 75-72 at Coastal Bend on Jan. 3.

A player to watch for Tyler is Ryan Mpouli, though his role in the recent win was limited. The Apaches will look to continue their offensive efficiency after the 91-point outburst, which saw contributions from across the roster including Caden Bell and Chris Uwayo Jr.

Historically, Angelina holds a slight edge in the season series based on common opponents. Both teams have faced Bossier Parish, with Angelina winning on the road and Tyler winning at home. Both also suffered close losses to Paris.

The game will be a conference opener for both squads, setting the tone for their regional schedules. Following this matchup, Angelina faces a tough road test at Blinn on Jan. 14, while Tyler prepares to host Kilgore the same day.

Saturday’s tipoff is scheduled for 4 p.m. at Angelina College.