Preview: East Mississippi Lions at Pearl River Wildcats

POPLARVILLE, Miss. (Interstat) — Two Mississippi junior college men’s basketball teams seeking momentum will meet Tuesday when the East Mississippi Lions visit the Pearl River Wildcats.

East Mississippi (8-7) enters on a three-game skid, including a narrow 69-68 home loss to Copiah-Lincoln last Thursday. The Lions have shown offensive firepower, scoring 100 points in a recent loss at Northwest Mississippi, but have struggled defensively during their losing streak.

Pearl River (4-7) snapped a three-game slide of its own with a 77-71 road win at Mississippi Delta last Thursday. The Wildcats will look to build on that victory and improve their record at home.

A key matchup will feature East Mississippi guard DeAndre Lewis against Pearl River forward Daijon Leatherman. Lewis has been a consistent scorer for the Lions, averaging 15 points over his last three games despite limited minutes. He posted 16 points, six rebounds and a block in the tight loss to Copiah-Lincoln.

Leatherman is coming off a dominant double-double for the Wildcats, recording 16 points and 12 rebounds in a win at Delgado on Jan. 10. His presence in the paint will be critical for Pearl River against an East Mississippi team that can score in bunches.

The Lions have the better overall record, but their recent defensive lapses—allowing an average of 92.6 points during their three consecutive losses—could provide an opening for the Wildcats. Pearl River’s victory at Mississippi Delta demonstrated an ability to close out a tight game, a trait they will need against East Mississippi.

Tuesday’s contest is the only scheduled meeting this season between the Lions and Wildcats. Following this game, East Mississippi will host Meridian on Thursday, while Pearl River will travel to face Holmes.

Tip-off is set for Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026.