FULTON, Mo. (Interstat) — The Central Methodist Eagles look to continue their push up the conference standings when they visit the struggling William Woods Owls in an NAIA men’s basketball matchup Wednesday night.

The Eagles (12-8) enter on a two-game winning streak, including a dominant 85-59 victory over Baker on Jan. 21. The Owls (5-14) have lost five consecutive games, most recently an 81-73 defeat at Missouri Valley on Jan. 21.

Central Methodist defeated William Woods 79-68 in their first meeting this season on Jan. 7 in Fayette. Austin Prater, a key player for the Eagles, was limited to 2 points and 3 rebounds in that contest but has been a force since. He is coming off a 12-point, 17-rebound performance against Baker and has averaged a double-double over his last four games.

William Woods will counter with forward Jacob LaBounty, who scored 12 points with 8 rebounds in the earlier loss to Central Methodist. LaBounty has been a bright spot during the Owls’ skid, averaging 18.4 points over his last five games, including a 27-point outing against Benedictine on Jan. 3.

The Eagles have found a rhythm offensively, averaging 83 points in their last two wins. Isaiah Reams (21 points vs. Baker) and Tyson Oghene (16 points vs. Baker) provide scoring balance alongside Prater’s interior presence.

For William Woods, slowing the Eagles’ momentum will require more consistent production beyond LaBounty. Demarco Buchanan posted a double-double (14 points, 11 rebounds) in the last outing and Clay Butler added 13 points off the bench.

Tipoff is set for Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026, at Anderson Arena in Fulton. Central Methodist visits Benedictine on Jan. 31, while William Woods hosts Graceland on the same date.