Preview: Lee Runnin’ Rebels at Blinn Buccaneers

BRENHAM, Texas (Interstat) — A tightly contested men’s junior college basketball rivalry adds another chapter Wednesday when the Blinn Buccaneers host the Lee College Runnin’ Rebels.

The Buccaneers (13-10) narrowly edged the visiting Runnin’ Rebels (11-11) 72-70 on Jan. 21 in their first meeting this season. Both teams enter Wednesday’s rematch looking to rebound from losses this past Saturday.

Lee fell 67-59 to Navarro despite a strong performance from Jayden Thomas, who scored 17 points and grabbed eight rebounds. Thomas has been a consistent contributor for the Rebels, who have lost four of their last five games, with three of those defeats by four points or fewer.

Blinn is coming off a narrow 82-79 road loss at Paris. Desmeon Jones facilitated the offense in that contest, dishing seven assists to go with 13 points. The Buccaneers have also experienced recent frustration, dropping three of their last four games, including two by a single point.

The game features a contrast in momentum. Lee’s recent skid includes close losses, while Blinn seeks to stabilize after a promising stretch earlier in February that included wins in four of five games.

Statistical projections suggest another nail-biter. Interstat’s game simulator forecasts a 100-100 draw, underscoring the perceived parity between the teams.

For Lee, containing Jones’ playmaking will be critical, while Blinn must account for Thomas’ scoring and rebounding prowess. The outcome could hinge on which team executes better in the final minutes, a phase that has plagued both squads in recent outings.

Following Wednesday’s game, Blinn travels to face Bossier Parish on Saturday. Lee’s next contest is also on the road Saturday at Trinity Valley.