Preview: Cypress Chargers at Irvine Valley Lasers

IRVINE, Calif. (Interstat) — A key early-season California community college men’s basketball matchup is set for Wednesday when the Irvine Valley Lasers host the Cypress Chargers.

Both teams enter with winning records, though they are trending in opposite directions. The Lasers (9-4) have won three straight, including a 62-48 victory over Los Angeles Valley on Dec. 30. The Chargers (8-5) have dropped two consecutive games, falling to Cuesta and Allan Hancock in a late-December tournament.

Irvine Valley’s recent success has been fueled by forward Matt Mowers. In the win over Los Angeles Valley, Mowers posted 18 points and eight rebounds. He is averaging 16 points and 7.5 rebounds over his last two contests.

Cypress will counter with guard Jack Rivera, who is coming off a 26-point performance in the loss to Allan Hancock. Over his last five games, Rivera is averaging 16 points, 3.4 rebounds and 2.2 assists, serving as the Chargers’ primary offensive catalyst. Support from Michael Wright, who had a 15-point, 10-rebound double-double in that same game, will be crucial.

The Lasers have shown defensive prowess, holding opponents under 65 points in three of their last four wins. Slowing down Rivera will be a focal point. For Cypress, reversing its recent skid will require improved consistency after scoring just 58 and 65 points in its two losses.

This game marks the first of two regular-season meetings between the teams. They will meet again at Cypress on Jan. 30.

Tip-off is scheduled for Wednesday night at Irvine Valley College.