Basketball Game Preview: Fullerton Warriors vs. Elba Bluejays

Fullerton is 6-0 against Elba since December of 2015 and they'll have a chance to extend that success on Tuesday. The Fullerton Warriors will challenge the Elba Bluejays at 6:00 p.m. Given that both suffered a loss in their last games, they both have a little extra motivation heading into this match.

Fullerton saw some tournament action on Tuesday. The contest between them and Nebraska Christian didn't end well, with Fullerton falling 55-36. The Warriors have struggled against the Eagles recently, as the game was their seventh consecutive lost matchup.

Despite their loss, Fullerton saw several players rise to the challenge and make noteworthy plays. Jaci Maxfield, who went 7 for 15 en route to 17 points along with seven rebounds and four steals, was perhaps the best of all. Maxfield is crushing it when it comes to steals: she's grabbed at least two every time she's taken the court this season. Georgia Bridger was another key player, putting up eight points and five boards.

Meanwhile, Elba came up short against Riverside on Saturday and fell 39-27.

Despite the defeat, Elba saw an underclassman step up: sophomore JarahLynn Morrow posted 12 points and five rebounds. Jazlyn Encinger also deserves some recognition as she scored her first points of the season.

Fullerton's loss dropped their record down to 5-11. As for Elba, their defeat dropped their record down to 3-11.

Rebounding is likely to be a big factor in this contest: Fullerton has been smashing the glass this season, having averaged 26.5 boards per game. However, it's not like Elba struggles in that department as they've been averaging 30.5 rebounds. With both teams battling to corral missed shots, we'll see if one team can grab an edge.

Everything came up roses for Fullerton against Elba in their previous matchup back in January of 2024, as the squad secured a 39-8 win. The rematch might be a little tougher for Fullerton since the team won't have the home-court advantage this time around. We'll see if the change in venue makes a difference.