Yuba City is on a five-game streak of home losses, Chico a three-game streak of away losses, but someone's luck is about to change. The Yuba City Honkers will take on the Chico Panthers at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday. Given that both teams suffered a loss in their last game, they both have a little extra motivation heading into this matchup.
Last Thursday, Yuba City was within striking distance but couldn't close the gap as they fell 59-54 to Bella Vista.
Even though the team lost, they still had their share of impressive performances. One of the most dominant came from Alex Saavedra, who scored 18 points. As a matter of fact, that's the most points he has scored all season. Another player making a difference was Abhi Mehata, who scored 11 points along with three steals.
Chico lost a heartbreaker when they last took the court, but unfortunately for them the loss they were handed on on Thursday was a bit more commanding. They suffered a tough 65-44 defeat at the hands of Pleasant Valley. While losing is never fun, Chico can't take it too hard given the team's big disadvantage in MaxPreps' California basketball rankings (they are ranked 368th, while Pleasant Valley is ranked 152nd).
Chico's defeat came about despite a quality game from Rakim Young-Thomas, who scored 12 points along with two steals. The team also got some help courtesy of Adam Brott, who scored nine points.
Yuba City has been struggling recently, as they've lost seven of their last eight games, which put a noticeable dent in their 7-13 record this season. As for Chico, their defeat dropped their record down to 12-9.
This contest is shaping up to be a blowout: Yuba City hasn't had any problem running up the score this season, having only averaged 59.1 points per game. However, it's not like Chico struggles in that department as they've been averaging only 56.7 points per game. The only thing between Yuba City and another offensive beatdown is Chico. Will they be able to keep them contained?
Yuba City might still be hurting after the 72-47 loss they got from Chico in their previous meeting back in January of 2023. Thankfully for Yuba City, Phil Bernardez (who scored 15 points along with seven rebounds) won't be suiting up this time. Will that be enough to change the final result? There's only one way to find out.
