Preview: San Diego Clippers at Rio Grande Valley Vipers

EDINBURG, Texas (Interstat) — A pivotal Western Conference matchup in the NBA G League is set for Tuesday when the Rio Grande Valley Vipers host the San Diego Clippers at Bert Ogden Arena.

The Vipers (21-14) enter with a winning record and momentum from a 117-115 road victory over Iowa last Sunday. They sit higher in the standings than the visiting Clippers (20-18), who are looking to build on a dramatic 135-132 home win over Austin last Friday.

The game features a compelling backcourt duel between two of the league’s most dynamic guards. San Diego’s Jaelen House is in the midst of a stellar February, averaging 26.8 points and 8.7 assists over his last 10 games. He is coming off a career-high 45-point, 8-assist performance in Friday’s win. Rio Grande Valley will counter with veteran guard Daishen Nix, who has recorded two triple-doubles this month and is averaging 29.0 points, 8.4 rebounds and 6.6 assists over his last five contests.

San Diego’s recent schedule has been a rollercoaster, with four of their last five games decided by three points or fewer, including two overtime contests. Their offense has been potent, scoring 135 and 140 points in wins, but consistency remains a question.

The Vipers have been strong at home and possess a more efficient record, though they are looking to rebound from a 123-106 loss at Sioux Falls on Feb. 19. Their ability to control the tempo and leverage Nix’s all-around play will be key against a high-octane Clippers attack led by House.

This contest is the first of a two-game series between the teams, with a rematch scheduled for Wednesday night at the same venue. Tipoff is set for 7:30 p.m. CST.