Preview: Gadsden State Cardinals at Southern Union State Bison

WADLEY, Ala. (Interstat) — A pair of Alabama junior college men’s basketball teams on different trajectories will meet Thursday when the Gadsden State Cardinals visit the Southern Union State Bison.

The Cardinals (6-5) enter with a winning record and momentum from a 96-85 home victory over Shelton State on Monday. The Bison (4-13), despite their overall record, are riding a wave of confidence after a high-scoring 109-96 road win at Coastal Alabama that same night.

Southern Union’s resurgence has been fueled by standout forward Don Tinsley, who is in the midst of a dominant stretch. In his last four games, Tinsley is averaging 24.8 points and 9.8 rebounds per contest. He poured in 28 points with eight rebounds and four assists in the win over Coastal Alabama.

Gadsden State will counter with guard Jayden Parks, a key contributor who scored 10 points in a narrow loss to Wallace State on Jan. 19. The Cardinals have shown balance, with different players stepping up in recent wins.

While the Bison’s record is underwhelming, their recent offensive output suggests a tough challenge for Gadsden State. Southern Union has scored 88 or more points in three of its last four games, all victories. Their four wins this season have all come since Jan. 18, indicating marked improvement.

The Cardinals have been inconsistent, alternating wins and losses over their last six games. Their defense will be tested by Tinsley and a Bison squad playing its best basketball of the season at home.

A statistical projection from Interstat forecasts a dead-even contest, simulating a 100-100 tie.

Thursday’s game is the first of a regular-season home-and-home series between the teams. They are scheduled to meet again in Gadsden on March 5.

Tip-off is set for Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026.