Struggling Teams Seek Momentum in California JUCO Clash

PALM DESERT, Calif. (Interstat) — Two men’s junior college basketball teams looking to halt slides will meet Wednesday when the Chaffey Panthers visit the Desert Roadrunners.

The California community college matchup at Desert (5-12) features teams with a combined 13-22 record. Chaffey (8-10) has lost two straight, including a 91-85 overtime defeat to Copper Mountain on Jan. 14. Desert has dropped three of its last four, most recently a 116-74 loss at Victor Valley on Saturday.

Panthers forward Collin Ingram is a key player to watch. He is coming off a strong performance in the overtime loss, scoring 17 points and grabbing nine rebounds in 25 minutes. In a Jan. 7 win over Victor Valley, he added 10 points and seven rebounds.

For the Roadrunners, forward De’miem King will be central to their hopes. He had a standout game in Desert’s last victory, an 82-76 win over Cerro Coso on Jan. 10, pouring in 27 points with eight rebounds and two blocks. He also recorded a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds in a close loss to Mount San Jacinto on Jan. 3.

Chaffey’s recent results have been inconsistent. Following a 3-1 stretch in late December and early January, the Panthers have suffered consecutive double-digit road losses at Barstow and the overtime home defeat.

Desert’s season has been marked by defensive struggles, allowing an average of 94.5 points in its four January games. Its lone win this month was the six-point victory over Cerro Coso.

This game is the first of two regular-season meetings between the teams. They will play again at Chaffey on Feb. 20.

Wednesday’s winner will gain a needed boost ahead of tough upcoming conference schedules. Chaffey hosts Mount San Jacinto on Saturday, while Desert travels to Copper Mountain.