Preview: Pensacola State Pirates at Chipola Indians

MARIANNA, Fla. (Interstat) — The Chipola College Indians, riding a three-game winning streak, will host the Pensacola State Pirates in a Panhandle Conference men’s junior college basketball rematch on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026.

Chipola (18-6) holds a commanding position in the conference standings and seeks to avenge a Jan. 10 home loss to the Pirates. The Indians are coming off a narrow 72-71 road victory over Tallahassee State on Wednesday, led by a 25-point performance from guard Peyton Wiggins. Wiggins has been a consistent offensive force and will be a primary player to watch.

Pensacola State (12-10) looks to snap a five-game skid, a stretch that includes a heartbreaking 68-66 home loss to these same Indians on Jan. 28. The Pirates are reeling from a 76-64 defeat at Gulf Coast State on Feb. 7.

The Pirates will lean on guard Deven Bates, who has been a bright spot during their recent struggles. Bates torched Chipola for 21 points, six rebounds and four assists in the late-January meeting. Over his last six games prior to a one-minute outing on Feb. 7, Bates averaged over 21 points per contest, demonstrating his capability to carry the offensive load.

This series has been tightly contested this season, with each team winning on the other’s home floor. Pensacola State’s 75-71 win here in January proves they can compete in this environment, but they face a Chipola squad that has found its rhythm in February.

The Indians boast a more balanced and productive recent resume, including a 78-47 rout of Tallahassee State last week. Chipola’s defense, which held Pensacola State to 66 points in the last matchup, will aim to contain Bates and force other Pirates to score.

Saturday’s Valentine’s Day clash is critical for postseason positioning. A win would solidify Chipola’s standing near the top of the conference, while Pensacola State desperately needs a victory to reverse its momentum and keep its playoff hopes alive. Tipoff is set for 7:30 p.m. EST at the Milton H. Johnson Health Center.