WESTCHESTER, Fla. (Interstat) — A pair of teams jockeying for position in the Conference USA standings will meet Thursday when the Florida International Golden Panthers host the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders.

The matchup at Ocean Bank Convocation Center features two teams with nearly identical records. Middle Tennessee arrives at 15-14 overall, while Florida International sits at 14-15. Both are seeking a winning ledger with the conference tournament on the horizon.

The game is a quick rematch of a thrilling overtime contest just one month ago. On Feb. 4 in Murfreesboro, Florida International edged Middle Tennessee 88-84 in overtime. Golden Panthers guard Corey Stephenson was the catalyst in that victory, erupting for a season-high 34 points.

Stephenson enters this contest as Florida International’s primary offensive threat. He is averaging 18.4 points over his last five games, including a 21-point performance in a win over Louisiana Tech on Feb. 28. His scoring prowess will be central to the Golden Panthers’ hopes.

Middle Tennessee counters with guard Jahvin Carter, who is coming off a career night. Carter poured in 27 points and dished out seven assists in an 86-85 overtime win against New Mexico State on Feb. 28. However, he was held to just three points in the earlier loss to FIU. The Blue Raiders’ success may hinge on Carter finding his scoring touch against a familiar opponent.

Both teams have experienced recent volatility. Middle Tennessee has won three of its last four, but all three victories were by four points or fewer. Florida International has split its last six games, with its last two outings being a 33-point loss at Sam Houston followed by the eight-point road win at Louisiana Tech.

Tipoff is set for Thursday night in Westchester. The Golden Panthers will look to secure a regular-season sweep, while the Blue Raiders aim for a crucial road victory to bolster their record.