SHELBY, N.C. (Interstat) — Two Big South men’s basketball teams on contrasting trajectories will meet Saturday when the Presbyterian Blue Hose visit the Gardner-Webb Runnin’ Bulldogs at Paul Porter Arena.

Presbyterian (9-10) enters with momentum from a dramatic 71-70 home victory over UNC Asheville on Wednesday. Gardner-Webb (2-17) seeks to halt a six-game losing streak, most recently an 89-80 home loss to Radford on the same night.

The Blue Hose have found a rhythm in conference play, winning three of their last five. Guard Carl Parrish has been instrumental, averaging 16.4 points over that stretch. He erupted for 28 points in 39 minutes in the win over Asheville, supported by Jonah Pierce’s 24 points and three blocks.

The Runnin’ Bulldogs have struggled defensively, allowing an average of 91.6 points during their current skid. A bright spot has been the recent scoring surge of guard DJ Jefferson, who tallied 21 points against Radford and 20 in a loss to High Point last week. Forward Jacob Hogarth added 18 points in the latest defeat.

While Presbyterian holds the superior record, both teams have faced challenges. The Blue Hose’s wins have often been tight, and they are 2-6 on the road this season. Gardner-Webb’s two victories came against non-Division I opponents Toccoa Falls and Brevard, with their last win over a Division I foe occurring on Dec. 6.

Historically, this series has been competitive. The teams will meet again in Clinton, South Carolina, on Feb. 7.

For Gardner-Webb, the matchup represents a critical opportunity to secure a elusive conference victory at home. For Presbyterian, it is a chance to solidify its standing above .500 in Big South play and build on its recent last-second success.

Tip-off is set for Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026.