GASTONIA, N.C. (Interstat) — A surging Gaston College team will look to avenge its only conference loss and continue its dominant season when it hosts Cape Fear Community College in a men’s junior college basketball matchup Saturday at Ashbrook High School.

The Rhinos (12-2) have won five straight games since falling 87-78 at Cape Fear on Jan. 23. That result stands as the Sea Devils’ (6-8) most impressive victory this season. Gaston enters as one of the region’s hottest teams, averaging 89 points during its win streak.

A key figure for Gaston is forward Ryan Evans, who is coming off a 14-point, 15-rebound, three-block performance in a 104-91 win over USC Salkehatchie on Monday. In the first meeting against Cape Fear, Evans recorded 11 points and eight rebounds. His consistent interior presence, including six double-doubles in his last 10 games, will be central to Gaston’s game plan.

Cape Fear seeks consistency after a split in its last two outings, following a 96-83 home win over USC Salkehatchie on Wednesday with a strong offensive showing. However, the Sea Devils have struggled on the road, with their January victory over Gaston marking a rare bright spot away from home.

The rematch features a stark contrast in trajectories. Gaston’s potent offense, which has topped 100 points three times this season, will test a Cape Fear defense that has allowed an average of 91 points in its eight losses. The Sea Devils must contain Evans and guard E.J. Joyner, who dished nine assists Monday, to replicate their earlier success.

Saturday’s contest is a crucial conference matchup for both teams as the regular season enters its final weeks. Gaston aims to protect its stellar record and solidify its standing, while Cape Fear looks to prove its January win was no fluke and build momentum for a late-season push.

Tipoff is scheduled for Saturday afternoon.