Preview: Santa Cruz Warriors at Cleveland Charge

CLEVELAND (Interstat) — The surging Cleveland Charge host the struggling Santa Cruz Warriors in a G League matchup Friday night at Wolstein Center.

The Charge (27-15) enter on a strong run, having won five of their last six games, including a 127-111 victory over Capital City on Tuesday. They are led by point guard Darius Brown, who is averaging a near triple-double in recent contests. In his last six games, Brown has posted three triple-doubles, including a 14-point, 10-rebound, 14-assist performance in the most recent win.

Conversely, the Warriors (14-27) have lost three of their last four, including a 104-113 home loss to South Bay on Sunday. Their bright spot has been center Charles Bassey, who has been a dominant force. Bassey is averaging a double-double, with 22.8 points and 12.3 rebounds per game over his last six outings. He recorded 24 points and 10 rebounds in Sunday’s defeat.

The teams’ season trajectories contrast sharply. Cleveland’s offense has been explosive, scoring 125 points or more in four of its last six wins. Santa Cruz has shown offensive flashes but has struggled with consistency, particularly on defense, allowing 113 points or more in five of its last seven games.

Friday’s game will be the first of a back-to-back set between the teams, with a rematch scheduled in Cleveland on Saturday.

For the Charge, maintaining their offensive rhythm and containing Bassey inside will be key. For the Warriors, finding supplementary scoring beyond Bassey and slowing Brown’s facilitation will be essential to challenge the home team.

Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. EDT Friday.