ZACATECAS, Mexico (Interstat) — The surging Jaliscos Astros, owners of the Liga Nacional de Baloncesto Profesional’s best record, visit the Zacatecas Mineros on Thursday night in a matchup of teams on opposite trajectories.

The Astros (15-1) enter the contest at Marcelino Gonzalez arena riding a dominant start to the LNBP season. They are coming off a 100-88 victory over Fuerza Regia on Sunday, a bounce-back performance after suffering their first and only loss of the season the previous night to the same team.

Jalisco’s offense has been prolific, led by a potent wing combination. Chavaughn Lewis is fresh off a 28-point effort, while Rigoberto Mendoza De La Rosa added 19 points. Point guard D.J. Cooper facilitates the attack, contributing 13 points and 4 assists in the win.

In contrast, Zacatecas (9-5) looks to regain its footing after being swept on the road by Soles de Mexicali, including a 92-60 defeat on Sunday. The Mineros struggled offensively in the loss, with Mirza Bulic’s 9 points and 5 assists leading the team. Marco Ramos provided a presence inside with 6 rebounds.

The Mineros have been strong at home this season but face their toughest test yet in the league-leading Astros. Jalisco’s record includes a perfect 7-0 mark on the road, showcasing their ability to win in hostile environments.

Statistical models heavily favor the visitors. Interstat’s game simulator projects a 95-83 victory for the Astros, while its ELO rating system gives Jalisco a 78.2% probability of winning.

This game is the first of a brief two-game set between the clubs, with a rematch scheduled for Friday at the same venue.