IRVINE, Calif. (Interstat) — A pivotal Big West Conference rematch with postseason implications is set for Saturday when UC Irvine hosts UC Santa Barbara at the Bren Events Center.

The Anteaters (18-10, 9-6), looking to avenge a home-and-home series split, hold a narrow edge in the standings over the Gauchos (17-11, 8-7). Both teams are coming off narrow losses in their last outings, adding urgency to the regular-season finale for both squads.

UC Santa Barbara won the first meeting 84-79 on Feb. 7 behind 17 points from guard Colin Smith. The Gauchos have lost three straight since, however, including an overtime defeat at Hawaii last Saturday where Smith scored 19 points. Over his last eight games, Smith has averaged 15.5 points, providing consistent scoring for a UCSB team that has struggled to close out tight contests.

UC Irvine fell 71-69 to UC San Diego last Saturday, despite a 22-point, 4-assist effort from guard Jurian Dixon. Dixon, who scored 15 in the loss at UCSB earlier this month, has been a key offensive catalyst, averaging 15.3 points over his last six games. The Anteaters have been strong at home this season and will rely on that advantage to solidify their conference tournament seeding.

The matchup features two of the league’s top guards in Smith and Dixon, whose backcourt battle could decide the outcome. UC Irvine will aim to control the pace and leverage its home-court advantage, while UC Santa Barbara seeks to break its skid and secure a season-series victory.

A win for either team would provide crucial momentum heading into the Big West tournament next week.