Bison Host Golden Eagles in Summit League Opener

FARGO, N.D. (Interstat) — A clash of contrasting trajectories opens the Summit League men’s basketball schedule Saturday when North Dakota State hosts Oral Roberts at Scheels Arena.

The Bison (11-5) enter conference play riding momentum, having won five of their last six games. Their most recent outing was a dominant 84-61 victory over South Dakota on Dec. 31. Guard Trevian Carson has been instrumental, averaging 17.7 points over his last three contests and dishing out seven assists in the win over the Coyotes.

Oral Roberts (5-11) seeks to halt a four-game skid, including a 72-61 loss at North Dakota on Thursday. The Golden Eagles have struggled on the road, posting a 1-7 record away from Tulsa.

A key matchup will feature each team’s top performer. For NDSU, Carson provides dynamic scoring and playmaking. For Oral Roberts, forward Yuto YamanouchiWilliams is coming off a career-high 20-point, five-rebound, four-block effort in the loss to North Dakota. His rim protection will be tested by a balanced Bison attack.

North Dakota State has excelled defensively at home, allowing an average of 66.2 points in Fargo. Oral Roberts averages 71.1 points per game but has been held under 70 in three of its last four losses.

The Bison won both meetings last season. History favors the home team in this series, with the host winning the last five matchups.

Saturday’s winner gains an early advantage in the league standings, while the loser must regroup quickly with a full conference slate ahead.

Tipoff is set for 1 p.m. CST.