Preview: Saddleback Bobcats at Fullerton Hornets

FULLERTON, Calif. (Interstat) — A clash of surging California junior college men’s basketball teams with contrasting resumes will highlight Wednesday’s slate as the Saddleback Bobcats visit the state-leading Fullerton Hornets.

The Hornets (13-1), whose only blemish is a narrow 39-37 road loss to Santa Monica on Dec. 17, enter as one of the state’s hottest teams. They have won three straight since that defeat, including a 78-66 victory at San Diego City in their most recent outing on Dec. 30.

Fullerton is powered by sophomore guard Yoda Oke, a dynamic scorer coming off a month of dominant performances. In his last four games, Oke averaged 20.5 points and 7.8 rebounds, including a 33-point outburst against Mount San Jacinto on Dec. 20 and a 22-point, 9-rebound effort at San Diego City. He will be the primary focus for Saddleback’s defense.

The visiting Bobcats (9-5) have shown resilience, playing in four overtime games this season and winning three of them. Their last contest was an 81-76 overtime win at East Los Angeles on Dec. 19, led by Charlie Stallings’ 25 points and seven rebounds. Saddleback’s season, however, has been marked by streaks, with separate three-game win and three-game loss stretches.

While Fullerton boasts the state’s elite record, Saddleback has proven capable of winning tight games on the road. The Bobcats’ 71-68 overtime win at San Diego City on Dec. 13 demonstrates they can compete with teams Fullerton has also faced.

The Hornets’ defense, which has held opponents under 70 points in nine of their 14 games, will be tested by a Saddleback offense that has scored 85 or more points in five games this season.

This matchup is the first of a home-and-home series between the teams, who will meet again at Saddleback on Jan. 30. Wednesday’s winner will gain early momentum in what promises to be a competitive conference race.

Tip-off is set for 5 p.m. PST at Fullerton College.