Preview: Colgate at Lehigh, Men’s Basketball

FOUNTAIN HILL, Pa. (Interstat) — A tight Patriot League race brings a rematch with revenge implications to Stabler Arena on Saturday as the Lehigh Mountain Hawks host the Colgate Raiders.

The matchup comes just three weeks after Lehigh (9-13, 4-5) edged Colgate (13-9, 6-3) 78-77 in Hamilton, New York, on Jan. 10. That result snapped Colgate’s four-game winning streak in the series and figures to be a focal point for the visiting Raiders, who sit in a tie for second place in the conference.

Colgate enters on a stronger recent trajectory, having won four of its last five games, including a 79-74 victory over Holy Cross on Wednesday. The Raiders are led by dynamic guard Jalen Cox, who is averaging 18.1 points and 6.4 assists over his last seven contests. In the first meeting against Lehigh, Cox posted 22 points, five rebounds and four assists.

Lehigh has struggled for consistency, alternating wins and losses over its past six games. The Mountain Hawks are coming off a 67-64 loss at Army on Wednesday. They will rely on guard Joshua Ingram, who orchestrated the last win over Colgate with 11 points and four assists. Ingram is a key two-way player, averaging 11.6 points and 4.1 assists while providing strong perimeter defense.

The game features a contrast in styles and momentum. Colgate boasts the league’s top-scoring offense in conference play, averaging over 80 points per game. Lehigh has shown a knack for close games, with four of its last six contests decided by four points or fewer or in overtime.

Saturday’s result will carry significant weight for the conference standings midseason. A Colgate win would solidify its position near the top and avenges its earlier home loss. A Lehigh victory would provide a crucial split in the season series and move the Mountain Hawks closer to .500 in league play.

Tip-off is scheduled for 2 p.m. EST. The game will be broadcast on ESPN+.