LAFAYETTE, La. (Interstat) — Two teams seeking momentum in the back half of their schedules will meet Saturday when the Louisiana-Lafayette Ragin’ Cajuns host the Central Michigan Chippewas in a nonconference men’s basketball game at the Cajundome.

Both programs enter with similar overall records. Central Michigan sits at 7-16, while Louisiana-Lafayette is 8-16. The matchup offers a respite from league play and a chance for either squad to build confidence with a win.

The Chippewas are coming off a high-scoring 95-89 road loss at Massachusetts on Tuesday, a game in which guard Logan McIntire erupted for a career-high 40 points. McIntire has been Central Michigan’s most dynamic offensive threat, averaging 21.4 points over his last five games. His backcourt mate, Phat Phat Brooks, dished out 11 assists in the loss to UMass, highlighting a backcourt that can generate offense.

Louisiana-Lafayette, however, brings a wave of recent success into the contest. The Ragin’ Cajuns have won three straight games, including a 64-61 road victory at James Madison last Wednesday. Guard Dorian Finister has been pivotal during the streak, averaging 17.0 points per game over that span. His consistent scoring and playmaking will be central to the Cajuns’ attack.

Central Michigan’s season has been marked by offensive volatility. They scored 100 points in a win over Eastern Michigan on Jan. 27 but were held to 61 in a loss to Miami (Ohio) on Jan. 13. Containing McIntire and managing the game’s tempo will be key for a Louisiana-Lafayette defense that has held its last three opponents to an average of 62.7 points.

For the Ragin’ Cajuns, protecting their home floor is crucial as they look to extend their winning streak to four. The Chippewas, still searching for their first true road win of the season, will rely heavily on McIntire’s hot hand to try and steal one in Lafayette.

Tip-off is set for Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026.