SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. (Interstat) — A stark contrast in trajectories will be on display Friday night when the surging San Bernardino Valley College Wolverines host the struggling Palo Verde College Pirates in a California community college men’s basketball matchup.

The Wolverines (21-5) enter the contest as one of the region’s top teams, having won 10 of their last 11 games. Their most recent outing was a 69-54 road victory at Barstow on Feb. 14, led by a balanced effort. In contrast, the Pirates (4-21) are mired in a difficult season, having lost 16 of their last 17 contests. They are coming off a high-scoring 118-108 defeat at Desert on Feb. 14.

San Bernardino Valley dominated the first meeting this season, routing Palo Verde 127-72 on Jan. 21. The Wolverines’ depth and defensive pressure overwhelmed the Pirates from the outset.

A key player to watch for the Wolverines is guard Duante Murphy, a dynamic playmaker who facilitates the offense. In his last five games, Murphy has averaged 14.4 points, 6.4 rebounds and 7.8 assists, including a 17-point, 11-assist performance in a win over Chaffey. His ability to control the tempo will be central to San Bernardino Valley’s game plan.

Palo Verde will lean heavily on standout guard Adam Hubbard, who is capable of explosive scoring performances. Hubbard is coming off a phenomenal 44-point, 12-rebound, 7-assist effort in the loss to Desert. Over his last five games, he has averaged 24.6 points. Supporting him in the backcourt, Isaac Nevarez (19 points, 12 assists vs. Desert) and Salameh Dugum-Maraboto (33 points vs. Desert) give the Pirates a potent, if inconsistent, offensive trio.

For Palo Verde to be competitive, they must find a way to slow Murphy and the efficient Wolverine offense while hoping Hubbard and his teammates can replicate their recent offensive firepower. San Bernardino Valley will look to leverage its superior record, defensive discipline, and depth to secure a season sweep and continue its push toward the postseason.

Tip-off is set for Friday, Feb. 20, 2026, at San Bernardino Valley College.