Preview: Volunteer State Pioneers at Southwest Tennessee Salquis

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (Interstat) — Two Tennessee junior college men’s basketball teams seeking momentum will meet Wednesday when the Volunteer State Pioneers visit the Southwest Tennessee Salquis.

The non-conference matchup at the Verties Sails Gymnasium features teams with a combined six wins this season. Volunteer State enters at 5-9 overall, while Southwest Tennessee sits at 1-9.

Despite their records, their previous meeting this season was a high-scoring affair. On Nov. 19, the Pioneers held off the Salquis 89-84 in Gallatin. Wednesday’s game offers Southwest Tennessee a chance for home-court revenge.

Volunteer State arrives with a slight boost, having snapped a three-game skid with a 66-64 road victory over Motlow State on Jan. 31. However, consistency has been an issue. The Pioneers followed a Jan. 14 home win over Dyersburg State with a 73-80 loss at Roane State three days later.

A player to watch for the Pioneers is Jailen Shelton. The guard has seen limited minutes but contributed in key spots, including scoring two points in the January win over Dyersburg State.

Southwest Tennessee has struggled to find a win since an 83-78 victory at Dyersburg State on Jan. 7. The Salquis have lost four straight, including a narrow 77-79 home loss to Pellissippi State on Jan. 17. In that game, Abdoul Sacko was a force with 20 points and nine rebounds, while Kody Hickerson added 17 points.

Statistical projections suggest another tight contest. Interstat’s game simulator forecasts a 100-100 draw, indicating a potentially volatile offensive matchup.

For Volunteer State, this begins a critical stretch before hosting Walters State on Feb. 7. Southwest Tennessee looks to build confidence before a road test at Chattanooga State on Saturday.

Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. CST Wednesday.