COSTA MESA, Calif. (Interstat) — A surging San Bernardino Valley College men’s basketball team looks to continue its winning ways against a struggling Orange Coast College squad in a non-conference junior college matchup Friday at the Wild West Shootout.

The Wolverines (5-4) enter on a positive note, coming off a 73-67 road victory at Ventura on Thursday. Guard Lincoln Liggins led the way with 23 points and five rebounds, continuing a strong stretch where he has averaged 18.1 points over his last seven games. He will be the primary focus for the Pirates’ defense.

Orange Coast (0-7) seeks its first win of the season after falling 96-80 at Compton on Thursday. Adrian Gonzalez provided a bright spot in the loss, scoring a season-high 22 points. The Pirates have struggled defensively, allowing an average of 86.3 points per game during their winless start.

Despite the contrasting records, a statistical projection adds intrigue. Interstat’s game simulator forecasts a 100-100 tie, while its ELO rating system heavily favors San Bernardino Valley, giving the Wolverines a 97.3% probability to win.

San Bernardino Valley has shown offensive firepower, including a 156-point performance against Imperial Valley on Nov. 21, but has also been inconsistent. Orange Coast will need a significant defensive improvement and another high-output game from Gonzalez to challenge the Wolverines.

The game is scheduled for a 5 p.m. tip-off on Dec. 5 as part of the California community college event.

Following this contest, San Bernardino Valley plays at East Los Angeles on Saturday. Orange Coast’s next game is at home against MiraCosta on Dec. 12.