COSTA MESA, Calif. (Interstat) — A clash of California junior college basketball opposites is set for Wednesday when the state-leading Fullerton Hornets visit the struggling Orange Coast Pirates.

The Hornets (24-1), whose only loss came in non-conference play, enter on a 12-game winning streak and are dominating Orange Empire Conference competition. Their most recent victory was a 93-79 win over Santiago Canyon on Feb. 12, powered by 25 points from standout guard Donovan Pitts.

Pitts, averaging 15.6 points in conference play, has been a consistent force. He scored 25 points in 31 minutes against Santiago Canyon and had 22 points in a road win at Santa Ana on Feb. 6. In the teams’ first meeting this season, a 96-68 Fullerton rout on Jan. 23, Pitts contributed 6 points and 2 assists in limited minutes.

The Pirates (1-25) are mired in a 10-game skid, with their lone win coming in November. They are coming off a 97-58 loss at Irvine Valley on Feb. 12. Guard Chris Obiajulu has been a bright spot, scoring 27 points in a loss to Santiago Canyon on Feb. 10 and 18 points in the earlier loss to Fullerton. He averages a team-high 17.2 points in conference games.

Despite the stark contrast in records, Interstat’s game simulator projects a highly unusual 100-100 final score, suggesting a potential for an offensive outburst.

Fullerton’s defense, however, has been stifling, holding opponents to an average of 64.2 points during its current win streak. Beyond Pitts, the Hornets have received key contributions from Yoda Oke (14 points, 5 rebounds vs. Santiago Canyon) and Brayden Smith (12 points, 4 rebounds, 3 blocks).

Orange Coast will need a monumental performance from Obiajulu and improved defense to challenge the state’s top team. The Pirates have allowed 90 or more points in eight of their last ten games.

Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. at Orange Coast College. Fullerton’s next game is at home against Irvine Valley on Friday, while Orange Coast travels to Saddleback the same night.