Preview: Bulldogs Visit Raiders in Key California Junior College Clash

MOORPARK, Calif. (Interstat) — A pivotal California community college men’s basketball rematch is set for Wednesday night as the Allan Hancock Bulldogs visit the Moorpark Raiders.

The Bulldogs (18-7), riding a three-game winning streak, look to avenge a narrow home loss to the Raiders from earlier this season. Moorpark (15-9) aims to complete a regular-season sweep and solidify its standing.

In their first meeting on Jan. 17, Moorpark escaped Santa Maria with a 68-65 victory. That defensive struggle contrasts with both teams’ recent offensive outbursts. Allan Hancock is coming off a 73-50 road rout of Los Angeles Pierce on Feb. 7, while Moorpark exploded for a 95-68 win at Cuesta the same day.

A key player to watch for Allan Hancock is forward TJ Hollinger. He is coming off a strong performance against Pierce with 14 points and nine rebounds. In the first matchup against Moorpark, however, he was held to just two points in 31 minutes, a defensive effort the Raiders will try to replicate.

Moorpark’s offense is powered by guard Noah Cotton, who is fresh off a spectacular 28-point, seven-rebound effort in just one minute of play in the win over Cuesta. His scoring punch will be critical against a stout Bulldogs defense.

Allan Hancock has found its rhythm in February, winning its last three games by an average of 20 points. Moorpark has been inconsistent, sandwiching the high-scoring win over Cuesta between a loss to Ventura and an overtime win at Santa Barbara.

The Bulldogs’ balance will be tested. In their latest win, Noah Morris posted 13 rebounds and Trenten Lavender added 10 points and six rebounds to complement Hollinger. Moorpark counters with additional firepower from Eric Kubel, who scored 20 points against Cuesta.

With postseason positioning at stake, this rematch promises higher intensity than the January affair. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. PST at Moorpark College.

Allan Hancock visits Santa Barbara on Saturday, Feb. 14. Moorpark’s next game is at Oxnard on Wednesday, Feb. 18.