Preview: Trinidad State at Southeast in Men’s Junior College Basketball

BEATRICE, Neb. (Interstat) — A key Region IX men’s junior college basketball rematch is set for Saturday when the Trinidad State Trojans visit the Southeast Bobcats.

The Trojans (12-14) edged the Bobcats (8-10) 76-74 in their first meeting on Jan. 31 in Trinidad, Colorado. Southeast will look to defend its home court and avenge that narrow loss.

Trinidad State arrives with momentum from a 90-68 rout of Lamar on Wednesday. Manning Shareef was dominant in that victory, posting 22 points and 12 rebounds in just 10 minutes of play. The sophomore forward, a player to watch, has provided explosive performances off the bench.

Southeast is also coming off a strong offensive showing, defeating Otero 89-78 on Wednesday. Bobcats guard Carson Forsey, another player to watch, led the way with 19 points and five assists. Forsey was a standout in the first matchup against Trinidad State, scoring 21 points in 33 minutes during the two-point loss.

The Trojans have shown a pattern of tight contests, with five of their last seven games decided by five points or fewer. Their recent results include a 96-77 win at Otero on Feb. 11 and a 74-72 victory at Western Nebraska on Feb. 4.

Southeast’s season has been marked by inconsistency, alternating wins and losses in its last six outings. Following the win over Otero, the Bobcats fell 89-84 to Western Nebraska on Feb. 14 and suffered a 78-47 defeat to Northeastern (Colo.) on Feb. 11.

The matchup pits Trinidad State’s recent road success against a Southeast team seeking stability. The Bobcats’ home record will be tested by a Trojans squad that has proven capable in close games.

Tipoff is scheduled for Saturday afternoon at Southeast Community College.