PENSACOLA, Fla. (Interstat) — A Panhandle Conference men’s junior college basketball rivalry will be renewed Wednesday when the Northwest Florida State Raiders visit the Pensacola State Pirates.

The Raiders (17-3) enter with the superior overall record, but the Pirates (12-8) will be seeking revenge and a chance to steady their season after a difficult stretch. Pensacola State has lost four consecutive games, including a 73-69 overtime defeat at Northwest Florida State on Jan. 17.

In that first meeting, Pensacola State guard Deven Bates was spectacular, logging 44 minutes with 24 points, eight rebounds and four assists, but it wasn’t enough to secure a road win. Bates has been a consistent force, averaging 22.8 points over his last six contests. His performance will be critical for a Pirates team looking to snap its skid.

Northwest Florida State, ranked among the nation’s top NJCAA teams, has hit a minor stumble itself, coming off an 82-69 home loss to Tallahassee State on Jan. 28. In that game, guard Hassan Dorman led the Raiders with 14 points and four assists in 24 minutes off the bench. His backcourt play will be key against Pensacola State’s pressure.

Despite their recent loss, the Raiders have shown resilience, winning seven of their last nine games. Their defense, which has held opponents under 70 points in 12 games this season, will be tested by Bates and the Pirates’ offense.

The game at Pensacola State’s home court adds another layer, as the Pirates aim to protect their home floor and split the season series. The rematch is set for Feb. 21 in Niceville.

Tipoff is scheduled for Wednesday night, with conference standings and postseason positioning on the line for both teams.