VENTURA, Calif. (Interstat) — A stark contrast in trajectories will be on display Wednesday when the surging Ventura College Pirates host the struggling Cuesta College Cougars in a California community college men’s basketball matchup.

The Pirates (16-3) enter as one of the region’s hottest teams, having won nine consecutive games. Their most recent victory was a 93-74 road win over Santa Barbara on Jan. 14, powered by a balanced attack. Meanwhile, the Cougars (6-13) have lost three of their last four, with their sole win in that stretch a 78-62 home victory over Oxnard on Saturday.

Ventura’s success is anchored by standout guard Jerimiyah Smith, who has been a model of consistency. Over his last five games, Smith is averaging 16.2 points, 10.2 rebounds and 4.0 assists, nearly posting a triple-double with 18 points, nine rebounds and six assists against Santa Barbara.

Cuesta will counter with forward Ryan McNamee, who is coming off a double-double performance of 16 points and 10 rebounds against Oxnard. McNamee’s production, however, has fluctuated; he scored 22 points in a loss to Moorpark on Jan. 14 but was held to just four points in a defeat to Allan Hancock on Jan. 10.

The teams’ recent results further illustrate the challenge facing Cuesta. During its win streak, Ventura has won by an average margin of 18.4 points. Cuesta, in its last four games, has been outscored by an average of 8.5 points per contest.

The Pirates won the previous meeting between the programs last season. They will look to continue their dominance at home, while the Cougars seek a season-defining upset on the road.

Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. at Ventura College.