High-Stakes California JUCO Clash Set for Friday as Mounties Host Warriors

WALNUT, Calif. (Interstat) — A pivotal early-season California community college men’s basketball matchup is set for Friday, Jan. 2, 2026, when the Mount San Antonio Mounties host the El Camino Warriors.

The Mounties (10-2), boasting one of the state’s top records, will look to defend their home court against a surging El Camino squad (9-5) that has won three of its last four.

Mount San Antonio enters on a six-game winning streak, including a 92-79 road victory at Canyons on Dec. 30. The Mounties’ offense has been potent, averaging 94.2 points during the streak. They are led by standout guard Dayvon Gates, who is coming off a near triple-double with 18 points, 4 rebounds and 9 assists against Canyons. Gates has scored 20 or more points in three of his last five outings.

El Camino counters with its own hot hand in guard Rocco Gaffoglio. He exploded for 29 points in the Warriors’ most recent game, a 71-54 win at Los Angeles Pierce on Dec. 19. Gaffoglio has averaged 21.2 points over his last six contests, providing the offensive spark for a team that has shown both high-scoring capability and grit in close games.

The Warriors’ recent results reveal a resilient group, with two of their last three losses coming by three points or fewer, including an overtime defeat to Barstow. Interior presence will be key; Justin Cricri and Chase Williams combined for 16 rebounds and 6 blocks in the win over Pierce.

Mount San Antonio’s balance presents a major challenge. Beyond Gates, Alejandro Munoz (16 points vs. Canyons) and Omari Abdallah provide consistent scoring and rebounding. The Mounties’ only two losses this season were by a combined 9 points.

This non-conference showdown serves as a final tune-up before both teams dive into their conference schedules the following week. The outcome will offer a clear measure of where each team stands against top-tier competition as the calendar turns to 2026.

Tip-off is scheduled for Friday evening at Mount San Antonio College.