DURHAM, N.C. (Interstat) — A surging Howard looks to continue its climb in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference standings when it visits a resurgent North Carolina Central squad on Saturday at McLendon-McDougald Gymnasium.

The Bison (10-8) enter with momentum after an 84-58 rout of Delaware State on Monday, their third win in four games. Howard’s backcourt, led by Travelle Bryson, has been key. Bryson is coming off a 16-point, 6-assist performance and has averaged 17.8 points over his last four active games.

The Eagles (7-11) have found their footing in conference play, winning three straight after a difficult non-conference slate. Forward Khouri Carvey has been dominant during the streak, posting a double-double of 24 points and 11 rebounds in a win over Norfolk State and scoring 21 points at Morgan State on Monday. His frontcourt presence will challenge Howard.

Howard holds the better overall record, but both teams are 3-1 in MEAC play, making this an early battle for conference positioning. The Bison have shown balance, with Ose Okojie and Cedric Taylor also providing consistent scoring. North Carolina Central’s offense has ignited during its win streak, averaging over 82 points per game after struggling to score earlier in the season.

Historically, games between these teams are tightly contested. The home court has offered little advantage recently, with the road team winning the last three meetings. They will meet again in Washington on Feb. 21.

Saturday’s matchup hinges on Howard’s perimeter attack against North Carolina Central’s interior strength, led by Carvey. A win would give the Eagles a signature conference victory and continue their remarkable turnaround, while the Bison aim to prove their strong start is sustainable.

Tipoff is set for Saturday afternoon in Durham.