Preview: Columbia (Calif.) at Yuba in Salt Water Classic

MARYSVILLE, Calif. (Interstat) — A compelling contrast in momentum and metrics will be on display Saturday when the Columbia (Calif.) Claim Jumpers face the Yuba 49ers in a men’s junior college basketball game at the Salt Water Classic.

The Claim Jumpers (8-1), riding a seven-game winning streak, enter as one of the state’s hottest teams. They survived a scare Friday, edging Foothill 80-79 in overtime to maintain their form. Columbia’s success is anchored by forward Ahsan Huff, who has been a dominant force on the boards. In his last three games, Huff averaged 13.3 points and 14.3 rebounds, including a 16-point, 16-rebound performance against Folsom Lake on Nov. 30.

Yuba (4-3) also brings positive energy after a decisive 83-59 road victory over Folsom Lake on Friday. The 49ers have shown volatility, however, following that win with a loss and a win in alternating fashion over their past four contests. Guard Aidan Triplet, coming off a 14-point effort in a Nov. 25 loss to San Joaquin Delta, will be a key backcourt catalyst for the home team.

Despite Columbia’s superior record, Interstat’s ELO system projects Yuba with a 60.6% probability to win, suggesting a potentially tight contest influenced by location and strength of schedule.

The matchup is an early-season test for both programs before conference play begins in January. Columbia will look to Huff to control the interior and extend its streak, while Yuba aims to leverage its home-court advantage and build consistency.

Tip-off is set for Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025.