Preview: San Jose Jaguars at Foothill Owls

LOS ALTOS HILLS, Calif. (Interstat) — A key California Community College men’s basketball rematch is set for Friday night when the San Jose Jaguars visit the Foothill Owls.

The Jaguars (18-5), one of the region’s top teams, will look to complete a regular-season sweep after defeating the Owls 85-74 in San Jose on Jan. 14. Foothill (15-8) seeks to defend its home court and avenge that loss, which sparked San Jose’s current five-game winning streak.

San Jose enters in dominant form, coming off a 103-43 rout of Gavilan on Jan. 30. The Jaguars have won their last three games by an average of 34 points. Guard Jeremiah Butler has been a catalyst, scoring 19 points in just 20 minutes in a recent win over Hartnell.

Foothill aims to rebound from a 77-62 home loss to West Valley on Jan. 30, which snapped a two-game win streak. The Owls have shown a high ceiling at home, including a 109-54 victory over Hartnell on Jan. 21, but consistency has been elusive.

The Jan. 14 meeting provides the blueprint. San Jose’s balance and defense proved decisive. Containing Butler will be a primary focus for Foothill’s perimeter defense. The Owls must leverage their home-court advantage and find offensive rhythm early to avoid another double-digit deficit.

A Foothill victory would tighten the conference standings and bolster its playoff resume. A San Jose win would solidify its position atop the league and extend its momentum into the final stretch.

Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Foothill College.