Preview: Sam Houston Bearkats at Florida International Golden Panthers

WESTCHESTER, Fla. (Interstat) — Two teams jockeying for position in the Conference USA standings meet Saturday when the Sam Houston Bearkats visit the Florida International Golden Panthers.

The matchup at Ocean Bank Convocation Center features Sam Houston (10-7 overall) and Florida International (9-8), who are separated by just one game in the win column. Both are looking to build momentum after recent splits in conference play.

The Bearkats arrive following a 77-62 road win at Jacksonville State on Wednesday. Veljko Ilic led the way with 18 points in 23 minutes, continuing a strong stretch for the forward. Over his last six games, Ilic is averaging 14.8 points and 8.3 rebounds, including double-doubles in losses at Middle Tennessee and Western Kentucky to open January. Kashie Natt (10 points, 5 assists) and Damon Nicholas (11 points) also provided key contributions in the win.

Florida International looks to rebound from a narrow 89-86 road loss at Kennesaw State on the same night. Despite the defeat, guard Zawdie Jackson erupted for 25 points, while forward Eric Dibami added 15 points and four blocked shots. Dibami has been a consistent interior presence for the Golden Panthers, averaging 13.6 points and 6.9 rebounds on the season and recording double-doubles in wins over UTEP and New Mexico State earlier this month.

Sam Houston has shown a potent offense, averaging 80.2 points per game, but has struggled defensively on the road in conference play, allowing an average of 88 points in losses at Western Kentucky and Middle Tennessee. Florida International has defended its home court well, posting a 6-2 record at the Convocation Center this season.

The game is the first of two regular-season meetings between the programs. They are scheduled to meet again in Huntsville, Texas, on Feb. 26.

Tip-off is set for Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026.