Hot-Shooting Taylor Visits St. Francis in Crossroads League Clash

UPLAND, Ind. (Interstat) — The surging Taylor Trojans will put a four-game winning streak on the line when they visit the St. Francis (Ind.) Fighting Saints in a men’s NAIA Crossroads League matchup Wednesday night.

Taylor (10-3, 2-0 CL) enters with significant momentum, averaging 94 points per game during its streak, which includes an 88-58 rout of Marian on Saturday. The Trojans’ offense has been efficient, shooting 54% from the field over their last three contests.

The Fighting Saints (5-7, 1-1), meanwhile, are looking to build on their own offensive explosion, a 105-84 road win at Goshen on Saturday. That victory snapped a two-game skid.

A key matchup will feature two of the league’s top performers. Taylor is led by guard Anthony McGhee, who is averaging 13.8 points on 58% shooting over his last four games. He posted 18 points, six rebounds and three assists against Marian.

St. Francis counters with dynamic guard Marr Avance, who is coming off a near triple-double. He torched Goshen for 25 points, nine rebounds, eight assists and two blocks in 33 minutes. His playmaking will be central to the Saints’ hopes of an upset.

While Taylor boasts the superior record, St. Francis has shown a high-scoring capability, topping 100 points twice this season. However, defensive consistency has been an issue, as the Saints have allowed 89 or more points in six of their seven losses.

Taylor’s balance was on full display Saturday, as Carson Gould dished out 13 assists and Levin Smith added 13 points and four rebounds alongside McGhee’s effort.

The Trojans won both meetings last season. These teams will meet again in Upland on Feb. 11.

Wednesday’s tipoff at Hutzell Athletic Center is set for 7 p.m. EST.