Preview of Antelope Valley at Los Angeles Valley Men’s Basketball

LANCASTER, Calif. (Interstat) — A surging Antelope Valley men’s basketball team will look to continue its climb above .500 when it visits struggling Los Angeles Valley in a California community college matchup Wednesday night.

The Antelope Valley Marauders (9-8) have won three straight games and four of their last five, most recently an 81-76 road victory at Santa Monica on Jan. 21. The Los Angeles Valley Monarchs (5-13) have lost six consecutive games, including a 96-80 home defeat to Bakersfield on Jan. 24.

The Marauders’ recent success has been fueled by forward Amado Coleman. Over his last five games, Coleman is averaging 19 points, 9.6 rebounds and 3.6 assists per contest. He posted 23 points, nine rebounds and five assists in the win over Santa Monica, where he was supported by a double-double from Mister Burnside (15 points, 13 rebounds, seven assists) and Ripine Vagaia (14 points, 12 rebounds).

For the Monarchs, guard Andy Porcayo has been a consistent performer during the losing streak, averaging 14.3 points, 5.2 rebounds and 4 assists over his last six outings. He scored a team-high 18 points in the loss to Bakersfield, with Derek Peterson adding 17 points.

Antelope Valley’s offense has found its rhythm, scoring an average of 85.3 points during its three-game win streak. Los Angeles Valley has faced defensive challenges, allowing an average of 89.2 points per game during its six-game skid.

The teams will meet again at Antelope Valley on Feb. 20.