TOLEDO, Ohio (Interstat) — A pivotal late-season Mid-American Conference men’s basketball clash is set for Friday night when the Toledo Rockets host the Buffalo Bulls at Savage Hall.

Both teams enter the regular-season finale looking to solidify their positioning for the upcoming conference tournament. Buffalo (17-12 overall) holds a slim one-game edge in the win column over Toledo (16-14). The matchup features two of the league’s premier guards in a head-to-head battle for postseason momentum.

The Bulls are led by dynamic scorer Ryan Sabol, who is coming off a 27-point performance in Tuesday’s 72-67 home win over Eastern Michigan. Over his last seven games, Sabol has averaged 20.1 points, including outbursts of 28 and 27 points. His ability to score from all levels, evidenced by a triple-double of 10 points and 10 assists in a Feb. 21 overtime win at Massachusetts, will be central to Buffalo’s attack.

Toledo counters with floor general Leroy Blyden, who has been equally prolific. Blyden averaged 18.1 points over his last seven contests, including a 22-point effort in a road win at Ohio on Feb. 28. His all-around game was on full display in a Feb. 21 victory over Eastern Michigan, where he posted 15 points, six rebounds and eight assists.

The Rockets have been strong at home in conference play, winning three of their last four at Savage Hall, with the lone loss a narrow 74-72 defeat at Miami (Ohio) on Tuesday. Buffalo has struggled on the road recently, dropping its last two away games at Akron and Central Michigan before the home win over Eastern Michigan.

History suggests a close contest. In their first meeting this season, details of which were not provided, these teams often play tight games with MAC Tournament seeding implications. Friday’s result will directly impact the bracket for next week’s tournament in Cleveland, making this a critical final tune-up for both squads.

Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. EST at John F. Savage Hall.