GREENSBORO, N.C. (Interstat) — A surging Samford squad looks to continue its winning ways against a UNC Greensboro team seeking consistency as the Southern Conference men’s basketball schedule resumes Saturday at Greensboro Coliseum.

The Bulldogs (8-6, 1-0 SoCon) enter on a four-game win streak, most recently dispatching Virginia Military Institute 78-58 on the road Thursday. The Spartans (5-9, 1-0) also opened conference play with a victory, holding off Chattanooga 77-72 at home.

Samford’s offense has found its rhythm during the streak, averaging 90.5 points per game. A key catalyst has been guard Dylan Faulkner, who is coming off a 25-point, three-assist, three-block performance at VMI. Over the last four games, Faulkner is averaging 19.8 points while shooting efficiently.

UNC Greensboro will counter with its own hot hand in guard KJ Younger. He poured in a season-high 24 points in the win over Chattanooga, following a 15-point, 12-rebound, five-assist outing against Virginia-Lynchburg on Dec. 21. Younger’s scoring punch is vital for a Spartans offense averaging 77.9 points.

While Samford boasts the better overall record, its wins have largely come against non-Division I opponents Reinhardt and Bryan, plus a narrow victory over Cornell. Road tests against VCU, Utah Valley and New Mexico State resulted in double-digit losses. UNC Greensboro’s schedule has also been challenging, with setbacks to Miami (Ohio), Delaware and Queens (N.C.).

The matchup features contrasting trajectories. Samford, picked near the top of the SoCon preseason poll, is playing to form after early struggles. The Spartans, under first-year coach Mike Jones, are looking to build momentum and climb the conference standings. Containing Faulkner will be a primary focus for a UNCG defense allowing 74.6 points per game.

Saturday’s contest tips off at 5 p.m. EST. Following this game, Samford hosts Western Carolina on Jan. 7, while UNC Greensboro travels to face Wofford the same day.