Moorpark Aims to Extend Win Streak Against Struggling Pierce

WOODLAND HILLS, Calif. (Interstat) — The surging Moorpark College men’s basketball team will look to continue its climb in the standings when it visits Los Angeles Pierce College on Wednesday night in a California Community College Athletic Association matchup.

The Moorpark Raiders (12-8) enter on a three-game winning streak, including a decisive 80-55 victory over Oxnard last Saturday. The Los Angeles Pierce Brahmas (5-15), meanwhile, seek to halt a skid after a tough 82-78 overtime loss to Cuesta on Jan. 24, despite a standout individual performance.

Moorpark’s recent success has been fueled by balanced contributions. In the win over Oxnard, Jake Field led with 17 points in 27 minutes, while Dominique Brutus grabbed 10 rebounds and Josh Castaniero dished out seven assists. Field, a key player to watch, is averaging 11.8 points over his last six games and posted a near triple-double (8 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists) in a December win over Fresno City.

The Brahmas will counter with guard DJ Maron-Gaines, who is coming off a season-high 24-point effort in the overtime defeat to Cuesta. Maron-Gaines has been a bright spot, averaging 13.3 points over his last seven contests. Support from Kameron Fricks (10 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists vs. Cuesta) will be crucial for the home team.

The teams’ records paint a contrasting picture of their seasons. Moorpark has found consistency, going 7-3 in its last 10 games. Pierce has struggled to close out contests, with five of its last six losses coming by double digits, though a road win at Oxnard on Jan. 21 shows potential.

This game is the first of a regular-season home-and-home series. The Brahmas will travel to face the Raiders in Moorpark on Feb. 20.

Wednesday’s tipoff is set for 7 p.m. at Pierce College.