Preview: Texas-Arlington at Utah Valley

VINEYARD, Utah (Interstat) — A key Western Athletic Conference men’s basketball matchup features two of the league’s hottest teams when Utah Valley hosts Texas-Arlington on Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026, at the UCCU Center.

The Wolverines (14-4, 4-1 WAC) enter on a five-game home winning streak and are coming off a 92-76 victory over Utah Tech on Jan. 10. They are led by dynamic guard Trevan Leonhardt, who is averaging 17.8 points and 6.2 assists over his last five games. He erupted for 26 points, seven assists and three blocks in the win over Utah Tech.

The visiting Mavericks (12-5, 4-1) have won six of their last seven, including a gritty 56-52 road win at Utah Tech on Thursday. Forward Raysean Seamster has been a consistent force, scoring in double figures in six consecutive games. He led the team with 14 points in the low-scoring affair at Utah Tech.

This contest pits Utah Valley’s high-powered offense, which has scored 89 or more points in three of its last five, against a Texas-Arlington defense that has held four of its last seven opponents under 63 points. The Mavericks’ recent success has been built on such defensive efforts, though they will face one of their stiffest tests in the Wolverines.

Utah Valley’s only conference loss was an 85-68 road defeat at Abilene Christian on Jan. 3. Texas-Arlington beat that same Abilene Christian team 82-72 at home on Jan. 10. The Mavericks’ lone WAC loss came at home to Tarleton State on Dec. 29.

The Wolverines hold a slight edge in the standings and will have the benefit of a full week of rest and preparation. The Mavericks, playing their second road game in three days, will need to find energy against a well-rested opponent in a hostile environment.

Saturday’s winner will secure an important early conference victory and momentum heading into the heart of the WAC schedule.