Preview: Wisconsin Herd at Osceola Magic

KISSIMMEE, Fla. (Interstat) — A stark contrast in fortunes will be on display Wednesday when the last-place Wisconsin Herd visit the surging Osceola Magic in a G League matchup at Silver Spurs Arena.

The Magic (27-13) enter as one of the league’s top teams, fresh off a dominant 134-103 victory over Maine on Sunday. They have won eight of their last 11 games. The Herd (13-30) snapped a four-game skid with a 109-103 win over Valley on Monday but remain anchored near the bottom of the standings.

Osceola’s success has been fueled by consistency, particularly from center Colin Castleton. In the win over Maine, he posted 20 points and 10 rebounds. Over his last seven games, Castleton has four double-doubles and is averaging 15.6 points and 10.0 rebounds. His interior presence will challenge a Wisconsin defense that allows an average of 112.8 points per game.

Wisconsin will rely on the dynamic play of guard Stevie Thompson, who is coming off a near triple-double performance. In Monday’s win, Thompson logged 21 points, 10 rebounds and eight assists. He recorded a triple-double (14 points, 11 rebounds, 10 assists) in a loss to Mexico City on March 7, showcasing his all-around capability. Backcourt partner Mark Sears, who scored 24 points against Valley, provides additional scoring punch.

The Herd’s victory Monday was a rare bright spot in a difficult season. Prior to that, they had lost five of six games, including a pair of double-digit losses to Mexico City last weekend. Their defense will be tested by an Osceola offense that exploded for 134 points in its last outing, led by Castleton and 23 points from Lester Quinones.

This is the first meeting of the season between the teams. Following this contest, Osceola begins a road trip at Greensboro on Friday. Wisconsin continues a road swing at Windy City on March 16.

Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. EDT Wednesday at Silver Spurs Arena.