Preview: Lafayette Looks to Avenge Loss as Patriot League Play Continues

BOSTON (Interstat) — The Lafayette Leopards will seek to even the season series and snap a recent skid against the Boston University Terriers when the teams meet in a Patriot League men’s basketball contest Wednesday night at Agganis Arena.

The matchup is a quick rematch, as the Terriers (7-12) handled the Leopards (5-13) 83-67 in Easton, Pennsylvania, on Jan. 7. Boston University has won three of its last five games, while Lafayette enters having split its last two, including a 74-55 home victory over Holy Cross on Saturday.

A key player to watch for Lafayette is guard Andrew Phillips, who is coming off a 19-point performance in the win over Holy Cross. Over his last seven games, Phillips is averaging 13.6 points. He was held to seven points in the first meeting with BU.

Boston University will counter with forward Ben Defty, who has been a consistent force. Defty recorded a double-double with 18 points and 10 rebounds in a loss to Loyola Maryland last Saturday and scored 26 points in an overtime loss to Lehigh on Jan. 14. He was efficient in the earlier win over Lafayette, scoring 15 points in just 16 minutes of play.

Both teams are looking to gain momentum in the middle of the conference schedule. The Terriers’ offense has shown high bursts, scoring 100 points in a win over Army on Jan. 10, but has struggled with consistency. The Leopards have had difficulties on the road, with a 1-9 record away from home this season.

Following this game, Lafayette will prepare for a road game at Lehigh on Saturday. Boston University hits the road for a matchup at Colgate on the same day.

Wednesday’s tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. EST.