Preview: Lamar Runnin’ Lopes at Trinidad State Trojans

TRINIDAD, Colo. (Interstat) — Two men’s junior college basketball teams with nearly identical records and a recent history will meet Wednesday when the Lamar Runnin’ Lopes visit the Trinidad State Trojans.

Both teams enter the 2026 matchup seeking consistency. Lamar is 11-13 overall, while Trinidad State is 11-14. The Runnin’ Lopes won the previous meeting this season, 81-73 at home on Jan. 28.

Lamar arrives with momentum from a 79-69 home victory over Northeastern (Colo.) on Sunday. The Runnin’ Lopes were led by Ahmed Cisse, who posted a dominant double-double with 17 points and 14 rebounds in 31 minutes. Christian Payawal added 12 points and five assists. Lamar has won three of its last four games.

The Trinidad State Trojans are also coming off a win, a 96-77 road victory at Otero on Feb. 11. The Trojans have split their last six contests. A key player for Trinidad State is Sean Spencer, who had six points, nine rebounds and an assist in 27 minutes in the Jan. 28 loss to Lamar. In his last four meaningful appearances, Spencer has averaged 5.0 points, 5.5 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game.

The game will feature a contrast in recent performance trends. Lamar’s offense has been potent in its wins, scoring 90 points in a victory over Western Nebraska on Feb. 11. Trinidad State’s results have been tighter, with three of its last five games decided by four points or fewer.

Wednesday’s contest is the first of a critical late-season stretch for both teams as they jockey for position ahead of the regional tournament. Following this game, Lamar will host Otero on Saturday. Trinidad State will travel to face Southeast on Saturday.

Tip-off is set for Wednesday night at the Trinidad State College gymnasium.