DURHAM, N.C. (Interstat) — A Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference rematch with momentum on the line is set for Thursday when North Carolina Central hosts South Carolina State at McLendon-McDougald Gymnasium.

The Eagles (12-16) look to avenge a 85-72 road loss to the Bulldogs on Feb. 18 and build on a modest two-game winning streak. The Bulldogs (8-21), meanwhile, aim to carry the confidence from a last-second 61-59 road victory at Delaware State on Monday into the rematch.

South Carolina State’s win earlier this month snapped a five-game skid in the series. In that game, the Bulldogs shot 50% from the field and dominated the paint, outscoring NCCU 44-26 inside.

Player to watch for the Bulldogs is guard Noah Treadwell, who is coming off an 18-point performance in Monday’s win. Over his last five games, he is averaging 13.2 points. For the Eagles, guard Gage Lattimore has been a consistent offensive force, averaging 18.1 points in his last eight contests. He scored 23 points and dished six assists in Monday’s 77-73 win at Maryland-Eastern Shore.

Both teams have struggled for consistency this season. The Eagles’ recent two-game streak is their longest since early January. The Bulldogs’ win Monday was just their second in the last nine games.

North Carolina Central holds a 10-4 record at home this season, while South Carolina State is 2-13 in true road games. A key battle will be on the boards; NCCU was outrebounded 39-28 in the February loss.

Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. EST. The game is critical for seeding in the upcoming MEAC tournament, with both teams looking to secure a favorable position.