CHARLESTON, Ill. (Interstat) — Two teams seeking their first win of the young season will meet Friday when the Eastern Illinois Panthers host the Nicholls State Colonels at Lantz Arena.

Both teams enter the non-conference matchup with 0-1 records after season-opening road losses on Tuesday. Nicholls State fell 77-51 at Kentucky, while Eastern Illinois dropped a narrow 63-66 decision at Valparaiso.

The Colonels will look for a stronger offensive performance after shooting just 31.7% from the field against the Wildcats. Jalin Rice provided a spark off the bench with 13 points in 13 minutes, while Grant Sanders added six rebounds.

The Panthers were led in their opener by Terry McMorris, who recorded a double-double with 11 points and 11 rebounds. Preston Turner scored a team-high 16 points in the close loss.

The game marks the start of a challenging stretch for both programs. Following this contest, Eastern Illinois travels to face Notre Dame and Kentucky, while Nicholls State continues a road-heavy slate with games at Valparaiso, Murray State and Oklahoma State.

Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. CST Friday at Lantz Arena.