Preview: Gadsden State Cardinals at Bishop State Wildcats

MOBILE, Ala. (Interstat) — The Bishop State Wildcats will look to build on their highest-scoring performance of the season when they host the Gadsden State Cardinals in a men’s junior college basketball game on Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026.

Bishop State (4-11) is coming off a 103-84 road victory over Coastal Alabama on Monday, a game in which guard Tahsheim Gary nearly recorded a triple-double. Gary finished with 28 points, nine rebounds, nine assists and two blocks, showcasing the dynamic ability that makes him the Wildcats’ primary player to watch. His performance against Coastal Alabama marked a season highlight for a Bishop State team that has struggled to find consistency.

Gadsden State (5-4) enters with a winning record and momentum from a 79-62 home win over Lawson State on Jan. 22. The Cardinals have been more successful in recent weeks, winning three of their last four games. Guard Jayden Parks is a key contributor for Gadsden State, coming off a 10-point, five-rebound effort in a narrow 75-72 loss to Wallace State on Jan. 19.

The matchup presents a contrast in trajectories. The Cardinals have shown the ability to win close games and protect their home court, with their losses coming by an average of just 4.5 points. The Wildcats’ season has been defined by offensive struggles and narrow defeats, including an overtime loss to Wallace State on Jan. 15 and a three-point loss to Chipola on Jan. 5. However, their explosive output on Monday provides a potential turning point.

Thursday’s contest will be the first of two regular-season meetings between the teams. They are scheduled to meet again in Gadsden on Feb. 26.

For Bishop State, containing Parks and replicating their recent offensive efficiency will be critical. For Gadsden State, weathering an early surge from Gary and the Wildcats on their home floor could dictate the game’s tempo.

Tipoff is set for Thursday night at Bishop State’s home arena.