VENTURA, Calif. (Interstat) — A surging Ventura College men’s basketball team, boasting one of the state’s top records, will host a Moorpark squad riding a wave of momentum in a key California Community College Athletic Association matchup Saturday.

The Ventura Pirates (14-3) have won five consecutive games, including an 85-60 road victory over Los Angeles Pierce on Wednesday. They are led by standout forward Jerimiyah Smith, who is coming off a 17-point, 12-rebound double-double in that contest. Over his last five games, Smith is averaging 19 points and 8.4 rebounds, showcasing the consistency that has powered Ventura’s success.

The visiting Moorpark Raiders (9-7) have won four of their last five, most recently an 81-67 home win over Santa Barbara on Jan. 7. Guard Jozef Zlocha has been pivotal during this stretch, averaging 9.0 points and 5.5 rebounds per game while providing versatile play. In the win over Santa Barbara, Zlocha contributed 15 points, six rebounds and four assists in 27 minutes.

The matchup presents a classic contrast. Ventura has established itself as a powerhouse, with its three losses coming by a combined 12 points. The Pirates’ offense has been potent, scoring 80 or more points in nine games this season.

Moorpark, meanwhile, has shown resilience after a slower start. The Raiders’ recent surge has been built on balanced contributions; in the win over Santa Barbara, Noah Cotton scored a team-high 19 points and Dominique Brutus added 11 points, nine rebounds and four blocks alongside Zlocha’s all-around effort.

Saturday’s game at Ventura College is the first of two regular-season meetings between the Western State Conference rivals. They will meet again in Moorpark on Wednesday, Feb. 4. The Pirates will look to protect their home court and solidify their standing, while the Raiders aim to continue their recent strong play and notch a statement victory against a top opponent.

Tip-off is set for Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026.