LORETTO, Pa. (Interstat) — A surging Central Connecticut team will look to continue its climb in the Northeast Conference standings when it visits struggling Saint Francis (Pa.) on Saturday.

The Blue Devils (9-6) have won three of their last four games, including a 69-59 road victory at Le Moyne last Saturday. They are led by forward Darin Smith, who is coming off a dominant 24-point, 12-rebound performance in that win. Over his last four games, Smith is averaging 21 points and has scored 22 or more three times.

Central Connecticut’s recent success contrasts sharply with the season-long difficulties for the Red Flash (4-13). Saint Francis has lost two straight and nine of its last 11 games. Its defense has been a particular concern, allowing an average of 84.5 points in its four conference games.

Guard Skylar Wicks has been a bright spot for the Red Flash, scoring 21 points in the team’s most recent loss to Long Island and pouring in 24 in a win over Fairleigh Dickinson on Jan. 4. He will need another high-output game to keep pace with Central Connecticut’s offense.

The Blue Devils have shown potency, scoring 76 points or more in three of their last four contests. Beyond Smith, Max Frazier (14 points, 9 rebounds vs. Le Moyne) and Jay Rodgers provide consistent support.

Saint Francis will aim to protect its home court at DeGol Arena, where it is 3-4 this season. The Red Flash’s last home game was an 85-82 victory over Fairleigh Dickinson, sparked by Wicks’ 24 points.

Tipoff is set for Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026. The game marks the first of a quick two-game conference road swing for Central Connecticut, which plays at Mercyhurst on Monday. Saint Francis remains at home to host Stonehill on Monday.