LEIPSIC, Del. (Interstat) — Two teams seeking momentum to open Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference play will meet Saturday when Delaware State hosts Norfolk State at Memorial Hall.

The Hornets (5-10) and Spartans (6-11) enter the matchup with nearly identical records and both coming off narrow conference losses on Jan. 3. Delaware State fell 53-51 to Coppin State, while Norfolk State dropped a 69-67 decision at North Carolina Central.

Norfolk State will rely on forward Devon Ellis, who is coming off a dominant performance in that loss. Ellis logged 18 points, eight rebounds, four assists and two blocks in 28 minutes against North Carolina Central. His production has been variable, however, including a two-point outing at Louisiana-Lafayette on Dec. 28.

Delaware State’s backcourt is anchored by guard Ponce James, who played all 40 minutes in the loss to Coppin State, finishing with 13 points and three assists. James has been a consistent scorer and facilitator, averaging 13.0 points and 3.8 assists over his last five games, including a 16-point, six-assist effort in a win over Holy Family on Dec. 21.

Both teams have struggled against high-major competition this season. Norfolk State’s losses include setbacks at Arizona (98-61) and Baylor (97-67). Delaware State fell at Miami (Fla.) 97-41 and at Rutgers 65-50. Each squad has shown an ability to win close games, with the Spartans edging UTEP 72-71 and the Hornets beating Longwood 81-76 on the road.

The game marks the start of a critical conference stretch for both programs. Following this contest, Delaware State travels to Howard on Monday, while Norfolk State hosts Maryland-Eastern Shore.

Saturday’s tipoff is scheduled for 4 p.m. EST at Memorial Hall.