Preview: Western Carolina Visits Mercer in Southern Conference Clash

MACON, Ga. (Interstat) — A surging Mercer squad hosts a struggling Western Carolina team in a Southern Conference men’s basketball matchup Wednesday night at Hawkins Arena.

The Bears (12-7) enter on a four-game winning streak, averaging 97.3 points per game during that stretch. Mercer is coming off a 102-92 road victory at UNC Greensboro on Saturday, fueled by a high-powered offense.

The Catamounts (6-11) have lost three of their last four, including a 90-82 home loss to Chattanooga last Saturday. Western Carolina has faced challenges on both ends of the floor, particularly away from home.

Mercer is led by forward Armani Mighty, who has been a dominant force. Over his last four games, Mighty is averaging 18.3 points and 4.3 blocks, including a 20-point, 2-block performance against UNCG. His presence inside will be a primary concern for the Catamounts.

Western Carolina will rely on guard Julien Soumaoro, who scored 17 points in the loss to Chattanooga. Soumaoro has shown versatility, posting a 16-point, 8-rebound game in a win at Furman earlier this month, but the Catamounts need consistent production from their supporting cast to compete.

The Bears have excelled at home this season, boasting a potent offense that has overwhelmed conference foes in Macon. Western Carolina’s defense, which has allowed an average of 82.4 points in its 11 losses, will be severely tested.

Historically, the teams have split their regular-season series in recent years, adding a layer of rivalry to the contest. This game marks the first of two meetings this season, with a rematch scheduled for Feb. 25 in Cullowhee, N.C.

For Mercer, the game is an opportunity to solidify its standing in the conference upper tier. For Western Carolina, it represents a chance to halt its skid and pull off a significant road upset against a hot opponent.

Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. EST Wednesday at Hawkins Arena.