Preview: Santa Ana Dons at Riverside Tigers

RIVERSIDE, Calif. (Interstat) — A clash between two of the California community college basketball programs heading in opposite directions will highlight Wednesday night’s action as the surging Santa Ana Dons visit the Riverside Tigers.

The Dons (15-2), owners of one of the state’s top records, bring a potent and balanced attack into the matchup. They are coming off an 82-77 home victory over Saddleback on Friday, where Aaron De Santiago contributed 17 points and seven rebounds. The engine of the team, however, is guard Christien Jimenez. Over his last five games, Jimenez has displayed remarkable versatility, averaging 11.4 points, 5.2 rebounds and 7.6 assists, including a 31-point, 12-assist performance in a shootout loss to Santiago Canyon on Jan. 7.

Riverside (10-7) has been inconsistent but showed resilience in its last outing, edging Irvine Valley 78-76 on Friday. That victory was powered by a season-high 30 points from standout guard Kollen Murphy. Murphy has been a high-volume scorer, averaging 20 points over his last four contests. His ability to get hot from the field will be crucial for the Tigers to keep pace.

The Tigers’ defense will face a significant test against a Santa Ana offense that has scored 83 or more points in eight of its 15 wins. Riverside’s recent results have been a mixed bag, with a 17-point road win at Saddleback on Jan. 14 followed by a 16-point home loss to Fullerton just five days prior.

This game marks the first of two regular-season meetings between the teams, with the rematch scheduled for Feb. 12 in Santa Ana. For the Dons, it’s an opportunity to solidify their elite standing, while the Tigers look to secure a statement win that could pivot their season.

Tip-off is set for Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026, at Riverside City College.