Preview: Ventura Pirates at Moorpark Raiders

MOORPARK, Calif. (Interstat) — A surging Ventura College men’s basketball team, ranked fourth in the state, puts its 11-game winning streak on the line Wednesday night against a Moorpark squad seeking redemption on its home floor.

The Pirates (20-3) travel to face the Raiders (14-8) in a California Community College Athletic Association matchup at 7 p.m. on Feb. 4, 2026. Ventura won the first meeting this season, 84-76, at home on Jan. 10.

Ventura enters off a dominant 124-79 victory over Los Angeles Pierce on Jan. 31, showcasing a deep and explosive offense. The Pirates have averaged 97.2 points during their current win streak. Forward Jerimiyah Smith has been a consistent force, averaging a double-double over his last eight games. In the Jan. 10 win over Moorpark, Smith logged 39 minutes with 14 points, 11 rebounds and five assists.

Moorpark arrives with momentum of its own, having won five straight since that loss to Ventura, including a 70-67 overtime road win at Santa Barbara on Jan. 31. Raiders guard Josh Castaniero orchestrates the offense and is coming off a 40-minute performance against Santa Barbara where he tallied nine rebounds, six assists and two blocks. He scored a season-high 17 points in the earlier loss to Ventura.

The Raiders’ recent success has been built on defense, holding opponents to an average of 65.2 points during their win streak. Containing Ventura’s high-powered attack, which features secondary scorers like Kevin Anigbogu and Snookey Wigington, will be their primary challenge.

A Moorpark victory would solidify its playoff positioning and avenges the earlier loss. For Ventura, a win maintains its hold atop the conference standings and continues its push for a top seed in the state tournament.