ROCKLIN, Calif. (Interstat) — A surging Sierra College men’s basketball team will look to protect its home court and solidify its standing near the top of the California Community College Athletic Association when it hosts Sacramento City College on Tuesday night.

The Wolverines (20-5 overall) enter the contest having won eight of their last 10 games, including an 89-79 victory over San Joaquin Delta last Thursday. They are led by guard Garret Dutro, who is coming off a 29-point performance in a win over Modesto on Feb. 3. Sierra’s potent offense averages over 85 points per game.

Sacramento City (8-18), meanwhile, seeks to halt a three-game skid and salvage a season series split. The Panthers are reeling from a 98-68 road loss to Santa Rosa on Feb. 12 and have lost six of their last seven contests. Defense has been a persistent issue, as they have allowed 93 or more points in four of those defeats.

The first meeting between these teams on Jan. 16 was a thriller, with Sierra escaping Sacramento City with a 93-90 victory. The Panthers will aim for a different result on the road, where they are 2-9 this season.

For Sierra, this game represents a critical opportunity to maintain momentum before a pivotal road matchup at Cosumnes River on Friday. The Wolverines have been strong at home, boasting a 10-2 record.

The Panthers’ path to an upset likely requires containing Dutro and slowing the game’s tempo, capitalizing on any complacency from the heavily favored Wolverines. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. PST at Sierra College.