Preview: Navy Midshipmen at Wake Forest Demon Deacons

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (Interstat) — A surging Navy team riding its best season in decades will face a Wake Forest squad seeking consistency when the programs meet in a nonconference men’s basketball game Wednesday at Joel Memorial Coliseum.

The Midshipmen (26-7), who have won 10 of their last 11 games, bring a formidable record and Patriot League regular-season championship pedigree into the matchup. Their only recent stumble was a narrow 73-72 loss to Boston University on March 8. Navy is led by forward Aidan Kehoe, who is coming off a dominant 26-point, 12-rebound performance in that defeat. Over his last seven games, Kehoe is averaging 15.9 points, 6.1 rebounds and 2.7 assists, showcasing a versatile inside-out game.

Wake Forest (17-16), navigating a challenging Atlantic Coast Conference schedule, has experienced a season of tight contests. The Demon Deacons’ last five games have been decided by an average of just 5.2 points, including an overtime win at Virginia Tech and a one-point loss at Boston College. Guard Juke Harris provides the offensive firepower, averaging 21.4 points over his last eight outings. He erupted for 38 points in the loss to Boston College and scored 31 in a win over California.

The game presents a stark contrast in momentum. Navy’s .788 winning percentage is among the nation’s best, built on defense and efficient offense. Wake Forest, however, will have a significant size and athleticism advantage typical of the ACC. The Demon Deacons are installed as 11.5-point favorites, with the over/under set at 147.5 points.

For Navy, a win would bolster its postseason résumé and mark a signature victory. For Wake Forest, it’s a chance to steady itself before potential postseason play and leverage its home-court advantage. The key matchup will be in the frontcourt, where Kehoe’s productivity will be tested by Wake Forest’s Tre’Von Spillers, who is averaging 13.8 points and 8.5 rebounds.

Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. EDT Wednesday.