KALAMAZOO, Mich. (Interstat) — A pair of Mid-American Conference men’s basketball teams trending in opposite directions will meet Saturday when Western Michigan hosts Eastern Michigan at University Arena.

The visiting Eagles (8-7, 1-1 MAC) enter with momentum following a decisive 74-52 road victory at Ball State on Tuesday. The Broncos (5-9, 0-2), meanwhile, seek their first conference win after falling 87-76 at Miami (Ohio) the same night.

Eastern Michigan has won two of its last three, fueled by the backcourt play of Carlos Hart. The guard is averaging 15.8 points over his last four games, including an 18-point performance in the win at Ball State. Addison Patterson and Mohammad Habhab provided additional support with 12 and nine points, respectively.

Western Michigan has lost five of its last six, with the lone win in that stretch coming against non-Division I opponent Defiance. Jayden Brewer has been a bright spot, scoring 19 points and dishing four assists in the loss to Miami (Ohio). Consistency has been an issue for the Broncos, who have struggled defensively, allowing an average of 84.2 points in their nine losses.

Saturday’s contest marks the first of two regular-season meetings between the in-state rivals, with the rematch scheduled for Feb. 14 in Ypsilanti. The Eagles will look to capitalize on their recent defensive success after holding Ball State to 52 points. The Broncos aim to leverage the home court to jumpstart their conference campaign.

Following this game, Eastern Michigan hosts Northern Illinois on Tuesday. Western Michigan continues its homestand against Massachusetts the same evening.