Preview: Wyoming Cowboys at Wichita State Shockers

WICHITA, Kan. (Interstat) — The Wichita State Shockers look to rebound from a rare loss when they host the Wyoming Cowboys in a nonconference men’s basketball matchup on Tuesday, March 17.

The Shockers (22-11) enter having dropped a 70-55 decision at South Florida on Sunday, snapping a five-game winning streak. Wichita State had been one of the American Athletic Conference’s hottest teams prior to the setback, winning 10 of its previous 12 games.

Wyoming (18-14) arrives after a narrow 73-70 road loss at UNLV on March 11 to conclude its regular season. The Cowboys have been inconsistent down the stretch, alternating wins and losses over their final six games.

A key matchup will feature Wyoming forward Damarion Dennis against Wichita State’s Dillon Battie. Dennis is coming off a strong performance in the loss to UNLV, posting a double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds. Over his last seven games, he is averaging 14.6 points and has scored in double figures in six of those contests.

For the Shockers, Battie provides a scoring spark off the bench. He led the team with 15 points in the loss to South Florida and erupted for 22 points in a win over Florida Atlantic on March 7. His efficiency will be crucial for a Wichita State offense that was held to a season-low 55 points last time out.

Wyoming will rely on its balance, as evidenced against UNLV where Nasir Meyer added 14 points and Gavin Gores scored 15. The Cowboys have shown the ability to win on the road this season, including a victory at Grand Canyon in February.

Wichita State boasts a strong home record at Charles Koch Arena and will aim to re-establish its defensive intensity after allowing South Florida to shoot 50% from the field. The Shockers have won eight of their last nine home games.

Tuesday’s game tips off at 8 p.m. EDT and will be a final tune-up for both teams before potential postseason tournament play.