Preview: Louisiana Tech Bulldogs at Delaware Blue Hens

NEWARK, Del. (Interstat) — The Louisiana Tech Bulldogs look to solidify their winning record and conference standing when they visit the struggling Delaware Blue Hens in a Conference USA men’s basketball matchup Saturday at the Bob Carpenter Center.

The Bulldogs (17-13) enter on a high note after a 76-71 road victory at Liberty on Thursday, powered by a career-high 34 points from standout guard AJ Bates. Louisiana Tech has won three of its last four games.

Delaware (10-20) snapped a four-game skid with an 83-80 home win over Sam Houston on Thursday. Despite their record, the Blue Hens have been competitive, with three of their last five losses coming in overtime.

The contest features a compelling backcourt duel. Bates has been the engine for Louisiana Tech, averaging 17.1 points and 6.6 assists over his last eight games. His 34-point outburst Thursday marked his fourth game with 20 or more points in that stretch.

Delaware will counter with guard Christian Bliss, who has carried a heavy offensive load. Bliss is averaging 20.1 points and 6.6 assists over his last seven contests, logging 40 or more minutes in six of them. He scored 25 points in a loss at Kennesaw State last Saturday.

The teams met earlier this season in a tight affair, with Louisiana Tech escaping with a 70-68 overtime win at home on Jan. 10.

Louisiana Tech has shown resilience on the road recently, with close victories at Missouri State and Florida International in February. Delaware is 4-5 at home in conference play, with several narrow defeats, including an 88-87 overtime loss to Western Kentucky on Feb. 18.

The Bulldogs will aim to exploit their momentum and superior record, while the Blue Hens will look to build on their recent win and leverage home court to pull an upset in the regular season finale for both teams.

Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. EST.