MARIANNA, Fla. (Interstat) — A key Panhandle Conference rematch highlights the junior college men’s basketball slate Saturday when the Northwest Florida State Raiders visit the Chipola Indians.

The Raiders (18-3), ranked among the nation’s top NJCAA teams, handed the Indians (16-6) an 81-71 loss in Niceville just two weeks ago on Jan. 24. Northwest Florida State enters on a dominant note, coming off a 75-46 road rout of Pensacola State on Wednesday where Justin Burns posted 13 points and 17 rebounds. Burns has been a consistent force, averaging a double-double in recent contests.

Chipola looks to rebound at home after a disappointing 87-59 loss to Gulf Coast State on Jan. 31. In that game, Desmond Kent Jr. led the Indians with 13 points. Kent, who had 7 points in the first meeting against NWF State, will be central to Chipola’s effort to protect its home court and improve its conference standing.

The Raiders’ balanced attack, evidenced by Damarion Vann-Kelly’s 23-point outburst Wednesday alongside Burns’ interior presence, poses a significant challenge. Chipola’s defense, which allowed 87 points in its last outing, must tighten up to contain a potent NWF State offense averaging over 75 points per game.

This matchup is the second of a three-game season series, with the final regular-season meeting set for Feb. 28 in Niceville. Saturday’s contest will significantly impact the conference race as both teams jockey for postseason positioning.

Tip-off is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, at Chipola’s home gym in Marianna.