IOWA WOLVES (13-10) AT VALLEY SUNS (6-15)

Preview

TEMPE, Ariz. (Interstat) — The Iowa Wolves, riding a wave of strong individual performances, visit the struggling Valley Suns in a G League matchup Tuesday night at Mullett Arena.

Iowa (13-10) enters on a high note after a 105-98 road victory over San Diego on Saturday. Forward Alize Johnson has been a dominant force, averaging 18.7 points, 13.0 rebounds and 5.6 assists over his last 10 games. His recent stretch includes a 40-point, 12-rebound effort on Dec. 29 and a triple-double (12 points, 15 rebounds, 11 assists) on Dec. 31. In the win over San Diego, he posted 24 points and 18 rebounds, supported by Jules Bernard’s 31 points and Enrique Freeman’s 21 points and 16 rebounds.

The Wolves have won three of their last five, showcasing a potent offense.

Valley (6-15) snapped a three-game skid with a 124-102 home win over Oklahoma City last Wednesday, fueled by a spectacular performance from guard Damion Baugh. Baugh recorded a triple-double with 28 points, 10 rebounds and 15 assists in that victory. He has been a bright spot, averaging 23.2 points, 7.2 rebounds and 8.5 assists over his last 10 contests, including a 34-point, 10-assist game on Dec. 29.

Despite Baugh’s playmaking, the Suns have the league’s worst record and rank near the bottom in defensive efficiency. They will need a collective effort to contain Iowa’s multifaceted attack led by Johnson.

The teams will meet again in Tempe on Thursday. According to Interstat’s game simulator, Iowa is projected to win decisively, 124-100.

Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. MST.