Preview: Massachusetts at Western Michigan

KALAMAZOO, Mich. (Interstat) — The Massachusetts Minutemen look to build on a recent win and climb above .500 in Mid-American Conference play when they visit the struggling Western Michigan Broncos on Tuesday night at University Arena.

Massachusetts (10-7) snapped a three-game skid with a 79-71 home victory over Ball State on Saturday. The Minutemen have shown a high-powered offense at times, scoring 100 or more points in two games this season, but consistency has been an issue.

The Minutemen will lean on guard Leonardo Bettiol, who is coming off a 20-point performance against Ball State. Bettiol has been a dynamic scorer, erupting for 32 points and 14 rebounds in an overtime loss to Bowling Green on Jan. 3. His production will be key against a Western Michigan defense allowing 78.1 points per game.

Western Michigan (6-9) ended a two-game losing streak with a convincing 79-62 win over Eastern Michigan on Saturday. The Broncos have found a spark in guard Jalen Griffith, who led the way with 21 points and five assists in that victory. Griffith has scored in double figures in four of his last five contests.

The Broncos have struggled against high-major competition this season, with lopsided losses to Iowa, Ohio State and Valparaiso. Their defense will face a test against a UMass team averaging 78.2 points.

This matchup begins a critical stretch for both teams in MAC play. Massachusetts aims to solidify its position in the upper half of the conference standings, while Western Michigan seeks to gain momentum and climb out of the bottom tier.

The Minutemen hold the historical edge, winning seven of the last ten meetings between the programs. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. EST.