Basketball Game Preview: Buford Yellow Jackets vs. Providence Classical Paladins

The Buford Yellow Jackets just played yesterday, but they'll still head out to face the Providence Classical Paladins at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday. Having both just faced considerable losses, both teams are looking to turn things around.

Buford came up short against Andrew Jackson on Wednesday, falling 69-47. While losing is never fun, the Yellow Jackets can't take it too hard given the team's big disadvantage in MaxPreps' South Carolina basketball rankings (they are ranked 228th, while the Volunteers are ranked 56th).

Meanwhile, Providence Classical played a tough matchup on Friday in which they were outscored in every quarter. They were outmatched by Buford and fell 60-32. For those keeping track at home, that's the biggest defeat the Paladins have suffered since December 4, 2025.

Buford will need to focus on slowing down Grafton Eiff, one of several Providence Classical players who made an impact when they last played. He posted 11 points along with eight assists and five boards. Eiff has been hot for a while, having also posted two or more steals the last 13 times he's played. Another player making a difference was Malachi Thompson, who went 6-for-10 on his way to 13 points.

Providence Classical's loss dropped their record down to 15-6. As for Buford, they have traveled a rocky road recently, having lost seven of their last nine contests. That's put a noticeable dent in their 6-14 record this season.

Everything came up roses for Buford against Providence Classical in their previous meeting on Friday, as the team secured a 60-32 victory. The rematch might be a little tougher for the Yellow Jackets since the squad won't have the home-court advantage this time around. We'll see if the change in venue makes a difference.