SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (Interstat) — A pair of teams jockeying for position in the Conference USA standings will meet Saturday when the Missouri State Bears host the Jacksonville State Gamecocks at JQH Arena.

Both teams enter the Jan. 31 contest looking to build momentum after recent splits. Missouri State (12-9) fell 80-71 to Sam Houston on Wednesday, snapping a two-game win streak. Jacksonville State (11-9) arrives with a two-game winning streak, including a 78-74 victory at Florida International on Wednesday.

The matchup features two of the league’s top offensive talents. Jacksonville State is powered by guard Mostapha El Moutaouakkil, who is coming off a career-high 31-point performance against FIU. Over his last seven games, the dynamic scorer is averaging 19.3 points, including four outings of 20 or more points.

He will be countered by Missouri State’s Michael Osei-Bonsu, who has been a consistent force. Osei-Bonsu scored 22 points in the loss to Sam Houston and has averaged 17.1 points over his last eight contests, highlighted by a 21-point effort in a win at New Mexico State on Jan. 22.

The Gamecocks have found a rhythm, winning three of their last four, with the lone loss a 77-62 setback against Sam Houston. Their success has been fueled by El Moutaouakkil and supporting contributors like JaCoby Hill, who added 15 points and three assists in the latest win.

Missouri State has experienced more volatility, alternating wins and losses over its past six games. Protecting home court will be a priority for the Bears, who are 8-3 at JQH Arena this season.

Saturday’s game is the only scheduled meeting between the programs this regular season. With the Conference USA tournament looming in March, the result will carry weight for seeding as both teams seek to finish the campaign above .500.