SOUTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (Interstat) — The Loyola Chicago Ramblers will look to build on a rare road victory and spoil Rhode Island’s New Year’s Eve when the Atlantic 10 Conference foes meet Wednesday at the Ryan Center.

The Rams (9-4) enter conference play with momentum, having won three of their last four, including an 85-77 home victory over Northeastern on Dec. 22. Rhode Island has been strong at home, posting a 6-1 record in South Kingstown.

Loyola Chicago (4-9) snapped a two-game skid with an 80-78 win at Santa Clara on Dec. 20. The Ramblers’ season has been defined by offensive struggles, but they showed resilience in that comeback victory.

A key matchup will feature two standout guards. Loyola’s Kayde Dotson is coming off a career-high 26 points against Santa Clara, averaging 14.8 points over his last five games. He will be countered by Rhode Island’s RJ Johnson, who dished out six assists and scored 19 points in the win over Northeastern. Johnson’s playmaking will be central for a Rams offense that has scored 85 or more points in three of its last five outings.

The Rams have relied on balanced scoring and defense, holding opponents to 62 points or fewer in four of their nine wins. They will test a Loyola team that has exceeded 75 points only twice in its last seven games.

Historically, Rhode Island holds a 4-2 series advantage, though this is the first meeting as A-10 members. The game tips off a critical conference slate for both teams. Rhode Island visits George Mason on Saturday, while Loyola Chicago hosts Dayton on Jan. 3.

Wednesday’s contest is scheduled for a 7 p.m. EST tipoff at the Ryan Center.