CHARLOTTE, N.C. (Interstat) — A pair of ASUN Conference teams trending in opposite directions will meet Wednesday when the Queens Royals host the Central Arkansas Bears at Levine Center.

The Royals (12-9) look to rebound from a road loss that snapped a seven-game winning streak, their longest since transitioning to Division I. Queens fell 74-66 at West Georgia on Saturday despite 20 points and seven rebounds from forward Avantae Parker. The sophomore has been a key figure during the team’s strong January, scoring in double figures in seven of eight conference games, including a 20-point performance in the recent loss.

Central Arkansas (10-10) arrives with momentum, having won three of its last four, including an 86-65 road victory at West Georgia last Thursday. Guard Ty Robinson led the way with 22 points in that contest, continuing a stretch of high-level play. Over his last eight games, Robinson is averaging 17.6 points, including a 27-point outing in a win over Florida Gulf Coast and a 24-point, five-assist effort in an overtime loss at Bellarmine.

The matchup features a contrast in recent consistency. Queens had been one of the conference’s hottest teams before its stumble, with its win streak featuring solid road victories at Stetson and Florida Gulf Coast. Central Arkansas has shown a capacity for both explosive offense, scoring 98 points in a win over North Florida, and grinding out close results, as in a 62-60 victory over Jacksonville.

Defensive pressure on the perimeter will be critical. Robinson’s scoring versatility powers the Bears, while Parker’s interior presence and shot-blocking anchor the Royals. Queens will aim to re-establish its defensive form after allowing West Georgia to shoot 50% from the field.

This is the first of two scheduled meetings between the programs this season. They are slated to play again in Conway, Arkansas, on Feb. 28.

Wednesday’s winner will gain an early advantage in the conference standings as the ASUN schedule nears its midpoint.