Radford at Winthrop

ROCK HILL, S.C. (Interstat) — A surging Winthrop team looks to continue its climb in the Big South Conference standings when it hosts a Radford squad riding its own wave of momentum on Wednesday night at Winthrop Coliseum.

The Eagles (13-8) have won five straight games, all in conference play, since closing non-league action with road losses at Texas Tech and Longwood. Their most recent victory was a 69-67 nail-biter at UNC Asheville on Saturday, keyed by 21 points from guard Kody Clouet. Clouet has averaged 16.3 points during the winning streak and is a focal point for the Winthrop offense.

The visiting Highlanders (11-9) have found their rhythm after a slow start, winning four of their last five, including an 85-83 home victory over Longwood on Saturday. That win was powered by a stellar performance from guard Del Jones, who poured in 25 points. Jones has been on a scoring tear, averaging 24.2 points over his last six contests, including three games of 27 or more points. His backcourt battle with Clouet will be a key matchup.

Both teams are trending upward in conference play. Winthrop’s defense has been stifling during its streak, holding opponents to an average of 62.6 points over the last five games. Radford, meanwhile, has showcased a potent offense, averaging 84.2 points in its four recent wins.

The game marks the first of two regular-season meetings between the programs this season, with the rematch scheduled for Feb. 4 in Radford, Virginia. Wednesday’s contest offers Winthrop a chance to solidify its position near the top of the league, while Radford aims to prove its recent success is sustainable and to even its overall record.

Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. EST at the 6,100-seat Winthrop Coliseum.