Preview: NJIT Highlanders at Binghamton Bearcats

VESTAL, N.Y. (Interstat) — Two America East men’s basketball teams seeking momentum will meet Saturday when the NJIT Highlanders visit the Binghamton Bearcats.

The conference opener for both squads tips off at 2 p.m. EST at the Binghamton University Events Center.

NJIT (5-10) enters on a two-game skid, including a 61-80 loss at Penn on Wednesday. Binghamton (4-11) snapped a five-game losing streak with a 100-60 rout of Division III Elmira on Monday.

The matchup features a contrast in recent leading performers. NJIT’s Jordan Rogers provides consistent interior presence, averaging 8.8 points and 6.0 rebounds over his last five games. He posted 15 points and eight rebounds against Penn.

Binghamton’s offense runs through guard Zyier Beverly, who is coming off a career-high 25-point, five-block performance against Elmira. He has averaged 17.0 points over his last three contests.

Both teams have struggled against Division I competition. NJIT’s five wins include two against lower-division opponents (SUNY Canton, New Haven). Similarly, Binghamton’s four victories include two non-DI wins (Elmira, Misericordia).

The Highlanders’ offense has sputtered, failing to reach 65 points in four of their last five games against DI foes. The Bearcats have allowed 80 or more points in six of their eleven losses this season.

This game begins a critical stretch for each program. NJIT will host New Hampshire and Maine next week. Binghamton faces a daunting trip to defending conference champion Vermont on Jan. 8 before hosting UMass Lowell.

Saturday’s winner will gain an early advantage in the league standings and a measure of confidence after difficult non-conference slates.