Preview: No. 8/-- George Mason Patriots at Saint Bonaventure Bonnies

KNAPP CREEK, N.Y. (Interstat) — The surging George Mason Patriots, boasting one of the nation’s top records, face a road test against the Saint Bonaventure Bonnies in an Atlantic 10 Conference men’s basketball matchup Saturday at Reilly Center.

The Patriots (19-2, 8-1 A-10) enter on a seven-game winning streak following a 60-52 defensive victory over Davidson on Wednesday. Their only loss since November came at Rhode Island on Jan. 24. George Mason’s success has been fueled by consistency, particularly from guard Kory Mincy. Over his last eight games, Mincy is averaging 14.4 points, 4.1 rebounds and 3.6 assists, including a 19-point, 5-assist effort against Davidson.

Saint Bonaventure (13-8, 4-5) looks to build momentum after an 87-79 road win at Duquesne on Wednesday, which snapped a four-game skid. The Bonnies are led by high-scoring guard Darryl Simmons, who erupted for 31 points in that victory. Simmons has averaged 18.4 points over his last seven contests, though his production has fluctuated. Support from Dasonte Bowen (19 points, 6 assists vs. Duquesne) will be crucial.

The matchup pits George Mason’s formidable record against Saint Bonaventure’s potent home-court advantage at the Reilly Center, a traditionally tough venue for visitors. The Patriots’ balanced attack, which saw Fatt Hill (14 points) and Jahari Long (10 points) contribute significantly last game, will challenge a Bonnies defense that has allowed 80 or more points in four of its last seven games.

Conversely, the Patriots’ defense, which ranks among the A-10’s best, must contain Simmons and Bowen. George Mason has held opponents to 74 points or fewer in 18 of its 21 games this season.

This game is the first of a regular-season series, with the Bonnies scheduled to visit Fairfax, Virginia, for a rematch on Feb. 28.

Up Next: George Mason hosts Duquesne on Feb. 4. Saint Bonaventure visits Dayton on Feb. 3.