Preview: Citrus Hosts Los Angeles Valley in California Junior College Men’s Basketball

GLENDORA, Calif. (Interstat) — A stark contrast in trajectories will be on display Saturday when the state-leading Citrus Owls host the struggling Los Angeles Valley Monarchs in a California Community College Athletic Association men’s basketball game.

The Owls (18-1), whose lone loss came in non-conference play, enter as one of the nation’s premier junior college teams. They have dominated their schedule, averaging 104.2 points per game during a current seven-game win streak. Their most recent outing was a 95-92 overtime road victory against West Los Angeles on Jan. 24.

Citrus is powered by sophomore guard Leo Ricketts, a consistent scoring threat. In the first meeting against Valley on Jan. 7, a 98-68 Citrus win, Ricketts posted 20 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists. He is coming off a 45-minute, 23-point performance in the overtime win.

The Los Angeles Valley Monarchs (5-14) have lost eight consecutive games since a Dec. 12 victory. Their most recent defeat was a 95-78 home loss to Antelope Valley on Jan. 28. The Monarchs have struggled defensively, allowing an average of 88.5 points during their skid.

Guard Derek Peterson has been a bright spot for Valley, scoring in double figures in three straight games, including 17 points against Bakersfield on Jan. 24. He had 13 points in the previous loss to Citrus.

The Owls’ high-octane offense, which includes a 147-point outburst on Jan. 17, will test a Valley defense that has permitted opponents to score 89 or more points in five of the last six games. Citrus has won the last five head-to-head meetings.

Following this game, Citrus will travel to face Antelope Valley on Feb. 4. Los Angeles Valley will host Santa Monica on Feb. 4.

Tip-off is set for Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, at Citrus College.