DAYTON, Ohio (Interstat) — Two surging mid-major programs will clash Wednesday when the Dayton Flyers host the Illinois State Redbirds in a nonconference men’s basketball matchup.

The Flyers (25-10), riding momentum from a strong close to their regular season, enter having won seven of their last nine games. Their most recent outing was an emphatic 80-61 road victory at UNC Wilmington on March 21. Dayton’s attack is led by guard De’Shayne Montgomery, who poured in 20 points in that win and has averaged 13.1 points over his last eight contests. His consistent scoring and all-around play have been pivotal for a Dayton squad that has shown resilience, including a narrow 70-69 win at Saint Louis on March 14.

Illinois State (22-12) arrives with confidence after a signature 78-75 road win at Wake Forest on March 22. The Redbirds have won three of their last four, with their offense finding a rhythm. Sophomore guard Ty Pence erupted for a career-high 23 points in the upset at Wake Forest, showcasing the scoring punch he provides alongside backcourt mate Johnny Kinziger, who had 19 points and five assists in the same game.

The game presents a contrast in consistency. While Dayton has compiled its record with a steady hand, Illinois State’s season has featured higher peaks and valleys, including a 52-74 home loss to Northern Iowa on March 6 sandwiched between impressive victories.

Wednesday’s contest at UD Arena will test Illinois State’s ability to secure another quality road win against a disciplined Dayton team. The Flyers will aim to protect their home court and use their defensive pressure to disrupt the Redbirds’ backcourt of Pence and Kinziger. The outcome could hinge on which team better controls the tempo, with Montgomery’s versatility for Dayton facing off against Illinois State’s newfound offensive explosiveness.

Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. EDT.