Gladiators, Mountain Lions Set for Key California Junior College Clash

HAYWARD, Calif. (Interstat) — The Chabot Gladiators, seeking to steady themselves after back-to-back losses, visit the resurgent De Anza Mountain Lions in a California Community College men’s basketball matchup on Friday, Jan. 23.

Chabot (13-5) enters on a two-game skid, most recently falling 67-60 at home to Canada College last Friday. That followed a road loss to Las Positas on Jan. 14. Before that, the Gladiators had won five of six, including a narrow 77-75 overtime victory over San Mateo on Jan. 9.

De Anza (8-10) has found momentum, winning its last two contests in dramatic fashion. The Mountain Lions edged Ohlone 74-72 on the road last Friday, preceded by a 90-89 overtime win against Canada College on Jan. 14.

A player to watch for Chabot is Malik Merchant. The guard logged 27 minutes and contributed 9 points, 3 rebounds and an assist in the pivotal win over San Mateo. His role will be key as the Gladiators look to jumpstart their offense after being held to 60 and 68 points in their recent defeats.

De Anza’s offense has shown high-scoring potential, surpassing 90 points twice in its last five games. However, its defense has been inconsistent, allowing an average of 86.2 points over that same stretch.

The Interstat game simulator projects a remarkably even contest, forecasting a 100-100 final score. This underscores the unpredictable nature of the matchup between Chabot’s stronger overall record and De Anza’s recent form.

This game marks the first of two regular-season meetings between the teams. They will meet again at Chabot on Wednesday, Feb. 18.

Friday’s result will carry weight in the conference standings as both programs navigate a tight schedule. Chabot visits Ohlone on Jan. 28, while De Anza travels to face Skyline the same day.

Tip-off is set for Friday evening at De Anza College in Cupertino.