Reedley, Merced Look to Build Momentum in Central Valley Clash

MERCED, Calif. (Interstat) — A pair of California community college men’s basketball teams seeking consistency will meet Wednesday when the Reedley Tigers visit the Merced Blue Devils.

The non-conference matchup at Merced College features two programs with contrasting recent form. Reedley (11-9) enters on a two-game winning streak, including a notable 70-68 road victory over Fresno City on Saturday. Merced (7-13) snapped a three-game skid with a 65-51 win at Lemoore that same day.

Reedley’s surge has been fueled by forward CJ Kornegay Jr., who is coming off a double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds in the upset of Fresno City. Over his last eight games, Kornegay is averaging 13.1 points and 7.5 rebounds. He will be a primary focus for a Merced defense that has struggled at times this season.

The Blue Devils will counter with their own interior force in Quincy White. The forward has been a bright spot, recording a 20-point, 16-rebound performance in a win over Fresno City on Jan. 14 and a 25-point, 10-rebound outing in a victory at Porterville on Jan. 7. His production will be key against Reedley’s frontcourt.

Despite their records, a close game is anticipated. Interstat’s game simulator projects a 100-100 tie, suggesting a potential high-scoring affair. Both teams have shown the ability to secure quality wins but have also endured puzzling losses, making this a difficult contest to forecast.

Reedley will look to maintain the momentum from its recent road success, while Merced aims to protect its home court and build a winning streak for the first time since December.

Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. PST on Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026.