MITCHELL, S.D. (Interstat) — A pair of Tigers seeking momentum will clash Wednesday when the Doane men’s basketball team visits Dakota Wesleyan in a key NAIA Great Plains Athletic Conference matchup at the Corn Palace.

Doane (5-7) enters on a two-game skid after an 80-72 home loss to Briar Cliff on Saturday. Dakota Wesleyan (6-8) snapped a three-game losing streak with a 79-70 road win at Midland that same day. Both teams sit in the middle of the GPAC standings, making this a pivotal contest early in the new year.

The game features two of the league’s top performers. Doane will lean on guard Jonan Claussen, who is coming off a 20-point effort in 34 minutes against Briar Cliff. For Dakota Wesleyan, forward Steele Morgan is the catalyst, posting a season-high 23 points and seven rebounds in the win over Midland.

Doane’s recent results have been uneven. After a close road win at Mount Marty on Dec. 17, they fell at Morningside and then to Briar Cliff. Support for Claussen has come from Trevon Beckman, who scored 19 points in the last outing, and Jack Wilson, who added 11 points, seven rebounds and five blocks.

Dakota Wesleyan’s season has mirrored its opponent’s, marked by streaks. Following losses to Northwestern (Iowa) and Dordt, their victory at Midland showcased a balanced attack. Alongside Morgan’s big night, Anthony Riggans contributed 19 points and five rebounds, while Randy Rosenquist Jr. nearly notched a double-double with 11 points and eight assists.

The venue adds a unique backdrop. The Corn Palace, famed for its exterior murals made of corn and grain, is a historic home-court advantage for Dakota Wesleyan.

These teams will meet again in just over a month, on Feb. 8 in Crete, Nebraska, adding another layer to Wednesday’s conference showdown.

Tipoff is scheduled for 7:45 p.m. CST.