Preview: Howard Bison at Northwestern Wildcats

EVANSTON, Ill. (Interstat) — Two teams riding contrasting streaks will meet Tuesday when the Howard Bison visit the Northwestern Wildcats in a nonconference men’s basketball matchup at Welsh-Ryan Arena.

Howard (9-5) enters on a five-game winning streak, its latest a narrow 67-66 road victory at UNC Wilmington on Dec. 20. The Bison have shown resilience in close games, with four of those five wins decided by six points or fewer.

Northwestern (7-5) looks to rebound from a tough 58-61 loss at Butler on Dec. 20, which snapped a two-game win streak. The Wildcats have faced a tougher schedule, with all five losses coming against high-major opponents.

A key matchup will feature Howard’s Bryce Harris against Northwestern’s backcourt. Harris, a dominant force, is averaging 16.2 points and 7.4 rebounds over his last five games. He posted a double-double of 18 points and 11 rebounds in the win over UNC Wilmington, teaming with Cedric Taylor (15 points, 11 rebounds) and Cam Gillus (16 points).

Northwestern will counter with guard Jayden Reid, who has been a steady facilitator. Reid is averaging 10.4 points and 4.4 assists over his last five contests. He led the Wildcats with 14 points and six assists in the loss to Butler.

The game represents a final nonconference tune-up before league play begins for both schools. Howard will open Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference action at South Carolina State on Jan. 3. Northwestern begins its Big Ten schedule at home against Minnesota on the same date.

Tuesday’s contest tips off at 7 p.m. CST.