STILLWATER, Okla. (Interstat) — A pivotal early-season Big 12 clash features two of the nation’s hottest teams when the UCF Knights visit the Oklahoma State Cowboys on Tuesday night at Gallagher-Iba Arena.

Both teams enter with just a combined three losses. UCF (12-1, 1-0 Big 12) is riding a nine-game winning streak, most recently an 81-75 home victory over then-Kansas on Saturday. Oklahoma State (12-2, 0-1) saw its seven-game win streak snapped in a 102-80 road loss to Texas Tech the same day.

The matchup hinges on a showdown of elite guards. UCF’s Themus Fulks is averaging 18.8 points and 5.5 assists over his last four games, including a 24-point, 12-assist double-double against Florida Atlantic. He scored 16 in the win over Kansas.

Oklahoma State will counter with Anthony Roy, who has scored 22 or more points in three of his last five outings. He posted 22 points and eight rebounds in the loss to Texas Tech. His season high of 27 came in a rout of Bethune-Cookman on Dec. 29.

The Knights have proven formidable on the road already this season, with a notable 86-74 win at Texas A&M in November. Their offense has been potent, scoring 80 or more points in 10 of their 13 games.

The Cowboys, however, are a dominant force at home, boasting a perfect 9-0 record in Stillwater this season while averaging 96.2 points per game at Gallagher-Iba Arena. Their defense will be tested by UCF’s balanced attack, which saw Jordan Burks (14 points) and Devan Cambridge (8 points, 8 rebounds) provide key support against Kansas.

Tuesday’s contest marks just the second meeting between the programs as Big 12 foes. The winner will gain a significant early conference resume boost, while the loser will absorb a second league loss.

Tip-off is scheduled for 8 p.m. EST.