FAYETTE, Mo. (Interstat) — A pair of Missouri NAIA men’s basketball programs heading in opposite directions will meet Wednesday when the Central Methodist Eagles host the William Woods Owls at Puckett Field House.

The Eagles (9-6) enter the contest looking to rebound from a road loss, while the Owls (5-10) aim to snap a three-game skid. Central Methodist holds a clear advantage in the standings, but the intrastate matchup often produces tightly contested games.

William Woods is coming off a 93-84 home loss to Benedictine on Saturday. The Owls have struggled defensively during their losing streak, allowing an average of 84 points per game in those three defeats. Their offense, however, has shown flashes, led by standout guard Jacob LaBounty. The senior is averaging 15.7 points per game and is coming off a season-high 27-point, six-rebound performance in the loss to Benedictine. Support from Mark Onyejekwe (19 points) and Isaiah Payne (9 points) in that game provided a positive sign for the Owl’s scoring depth.

Central Methodist fell 83-73 at Grand View on Saturday, snapping a two-game win streak. The Eagles have been strong at home this season, boasting a 5-2 record in Fayette. They are led by forward Tommie Williams, who paces the team in scoring and rebounding. Williams was a bright spot in the recent loss, logging 35 minutes with 22 points and seven rebounds. Guard Isaiah Reams, who added 17 points against Grand View, provides backcourt balance.

The Eagles’ schedule shows a consistent ability to score, having topped 80 points in seven games this season. William Woods will need to improve its perimeter defense, as the team has allowed opponents to shoot nearly 38% from 3-point range during its current slide.

This game opens a critical January stretch for both Heart of America Athletic Conference teams. Central Methodist will hit the road to face Graceland on Saturday, while William Woods hosts Clarke (Iowa) on Jan. 17. The two teams will meet again in Fulton on Jan. 28.

Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m. Wednesday.