Preview: Tallahassee State Eagles at Pensacola State Pirates

PENSACOLA, Fla. (Interstat) — A men’s junior college basketball showdown between two of the Panhandle’s top teams is set for Wednesday when the nationally ranked Tallahassee State Eagles visit the Pensacola State Pirates.

The Eagles (12-1) bring a surging record and one of the nation’s most efficient offenses into the contest, having won six straight games. Their most recent victory was a 66-59 defensive battle against Northwest Florida State on Jan. 10, where guard Shane Cherry led all scorers with 25 points and added seven rebounds.

Cherry, a dynamic scorer, will be a primary focus for the Pirates’ defense. He is averaging 25 points over his last full outing and is a central figure in Tallahassee State’s attack, which has topped 105 points twice this season.

Pensacola State (11-4) counters with its own potent weapon in guard Deven Bates, who is coming off a 28-point, six-rebound performance in a 75-71 road win at Chipola on Jan. 10. Bates nearly recorded a triple-double in late December, posting 16 points, eight rebounds and 11 assists against Calhoun, demonstrating his all-around playmaking ability.

The Pirates have shown resilience, winning three of their last four, including an overtime victory over Wallace State and the key road win at Chipola. Their defense, which held Miami Dade to 56 points last month, will be tested by the high-scoring Eagles.

This game marks the first of two regular-season meetings between the rivals, with the rematch scheduled for Jan. 31 in Tallahassee. Wednesday’s winner will gain an early edge in the conference standings and regional momentum.

Tallahassee State’s only loss came against Jones College (78-75) on Nov. 25. Pensacola State’s defeats include narrow setbacks to Calhoun in overtime and Daytona State.

Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. EST at Pensacola State’s home court.