Preview: Barstow Vikings at Cerro Coso Coyotes

RIDGECREST, Calif. (Interstat) — Two men’s junior college basketball teams seeking to halt losing streaks will meet Wednesday when the Barstow Vikings visit the Cerro Coso Coyotes.

The California community college matchup at the Coyote Den features Barstow (7-12) entering on a two-game skid and Cerro Coso (4-12) mired in a four-game losing streak.

Barstow fell 52-46 at home to Copper Mountain on Saturday despite a 20-point, six-rebound effort from standout guard Trestyne Nguru. The Vikings have lost three of their last five.

Nguru has been a consistent offensive force, averaging 17.2 points over his last five contests. His recent performances include a 19-point, five-assist game in a win over Chaffey and an 18-point, eight-rebound effort against Mount San Jacinto.

Cerro Coso is coming off a 72-62 road loss to San Bernardino Valley. Forward Terrance Sims Jr. has been a bright spot during the Coyotes’ slide, averaging 10.5 points and 6.5 rebounds over his last four games. He posted 16 points and seven rebounds in a narrow loss to Mount San Jacinto on Jan. 14.

Both teams have struggled defensively. Barstow has allowed an average of 74.2 points in its last five games, while Cerro Coso has surrendered 70.5 points per game during its four-game losing streak.

The Vikings hold the historical edge this season in non-conference play but have found conference competition challenging. The Coyotes will look to leverage home court advantage, where they are 3-5 this season compared to a 1-7 road record.

Following this game, Barstow travels to face Palo Verde on Jan. 28. Cerro Coso remains at home to host Palo Verde on Saturday.

Wednesday’s tipoff is scheduled for 5 p.m. PST.