HARTFORD, Conn. (Interstat) — A surging Butler team riding high from a dramatic double-overtime win visits the No. 2-ranked Connecticut Huskies in a pivotal early-season Big East clash Tuesday night at XL Center.

The Bulldogs (8-2) arrive fresh off a 113-110, double-overtime thriller against Providence on Saturday, a victory that showcased their offensive firepower and resilience. They will need both against a Connecticut squad (10-1) that has established itself as a national title contender, with its lone loss coming by four points to then-Arizona.

Butler’s success hinges on forward Michael Ajayi, who is playing at an All-Conference level. He scored 28 points in 44 minutes against Providence, his fourth 20-point game in his last six outings. Over that stretch, he has averaged 19.3 points and 8.3 rebounds, including a 17-point, 14-rebound performance in a road win at Virginia.

The Huskies counter with a deep and physical lineup, anchored by forward Tarris Reed. He is coming off a versatile performance in a 71-63 win over Texas last Friday, posting 12 points, five assists and four blocks. His defensive presence inside will be critical against Ajayi and Butler’s potent attack, which also features guards Evan Haywood and Finley Bizjack, who combined for 44 points against Providence.

Connecticut’s defense, allowing just 69.5 points per game, will be tested by a Butler offense averaging 86.1 points. The Huskies have won their last four games by an average of 11.5 points since the Arizona loss, with key wins over Florida, Kansas and Illinois.

This matchup begins a challenging stretch for both teams. Following this game, Butler hosts Northwestern before resuming Big East play at Creighton on Dec. 30. Connecticut hits the road for conference games at DePaul and Xavier after this contest.

Tip-off is set for 8:30 p.m. EST Tuesday. The game will be televised on FS1.