DAVIS, Calif. (Interstat) — The UC Davis Aggies will look to rebound from a midweek loss and protect their home court when they host the UC Riverside Highlanders in a Big West Conference men’s basketball matchup Saturday at The Pavilion at ARC.

The Aggies (11-8, 3-3 Big West) enter the contest after a 74-80 home loss to UC San Diego on Thursday snapped a two-game winning streak. UC Davis has been strong at home this season, boasting a 9-2 record in Davis. Guard Carl Daughtery has been a consistent offensive threat, averaging 13.4 points per game. He scored 16 points in the loss to the Tritons.

The Highlanders (7-12, 2-4) arrive with momentum from an 81-72 victory over Cal State Fullerton last Saturday, which halted a four-game skid. Their success hinges largely on the play of dynamic guard Marqui Worthy, who is averaging 18.0 points in conference play. Worthy erupted for 22 points in the win over Fullerton and has scored 19 or more in three of his last five outings.

UC Davis won both meetings last season, including a 78-73 overtime decision in Davis. The Aggies’ interior defense, which allows just 66.2 points per game at home, will be tested by Worthy’s perimeter scoring and the inside presence of Andrew Henderson, who added 17 points against Fullerton.

The game is a crucial early conference test for both teams as they navigate the middle of the Big West schedule. UC Davis seeks to stay above .500 in league play, while UC Riverside aims to build on its most recent performance and climb the standings.

Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. PST on Saturday, Jan. 24. The Aggies hit the road next to face Cal State Northridge on Jan. 29, while the Highlanders return home to host Long Beach State on Jan. 29.