COLLEGE PARK, Md. (Interstat) — Two teams seeking momentum to push their records above .500 will meet Friday when the Oregon Ducks visit the Maryland Terrapins in a nonconference men’s basketball game organized by the Big Ten.

The matchup at Xfinity Center features Oregon (7-6) and Maryland (6-6), both coming off decisive home victories last Sunday. Oregon defeated Omaha 80-57, while Maryland topped Old Dominion 73-58.

A key battle will feature Oregon’s Nate Bittle against Maryland’s Darius Adams. Bittle, a dominant force for the Ducks, is averaging 24.3 points over his last three games, including a 26-point, five-block performance against Omaha. His recent stretch also featured 28 points against Gonzaga. Adams leads the Terrapins, coming off an 18-point effort in the win over Old Dominion.

Oregon’s season has been marked by offensive bursts and defensive lapses. The Ducks have scored 94 and 104 points in wins over Portland and UC Davis, respectively, but managed just 63 in a loss at UCLA. Their defense allowed 91 points to Gonzaga in a recent defeat.

Maryland has struggled against high-major competition, with losses to Virginia, Michigan, Iowa, Alabama and Gonzaga this season. Their wins have primarily come at home against mid-major opponents, making this game a critical test. The Terrapins will look to improve upon a defense that surrendered 101 points to Michigan and 105 to Alabama.

The game is part of the Big Ten’s scheduling alliance, offering an early preview of future conference rivalry, as Oregon will join the Big Ten later this year. Following this contest, Oregon continues a East Coast trip at Rutgers on Monday. Maryland opens its Big Ten conference schedule at home against Indiana next Wednesday.

Friday’s contest is scheduled for a 7 p.m. EST tip-off at Xfinity Center.