ARKANSAS CITY, Kan. (Interstat) — A surging Cowley College men’s basketball team will look to extend its winning streak when it hosts a Fort Hays Tech squad seeking consistency in a junior college matchup Saturday.

The Tigers (8-2) have won five consecutive games, most recently an 86-68 victory over Pratt on Wednesday. They are powered by standout guard Marcus Smith, who is averaging 24.3 points over his last four contests. He erupted for 31 points in 31 minutes against Pratt.

“Marcus is playing with tremendous confidence right now, and it’s elevating our entire group,“ Cowley coach Tommy DeSalme said. “Our focus is on maintaining this defensive intensity we’ve built during the streak.“

The visiting Trailblazers (5-5) are coming off a narrow 74-71 home win against Barton on Tuesday but have alternated wins and losses over their past six games. Guard Kaleel Kelly led the way with 21 points in that victory, showcasing the scoring punch he provides. Kelly averages 15.8 points per game in Fort Hays Tech’s wins this season.

“Kaleel gives us a spark we need, especially on the road,“ Fort Hays Tech coach Aaron Tolefree said. “To beat a team of Cowley’s caliber, we’ll need a complete, 40-minute effort and to limit our turnovers.“

Cowley holds a distinct advantage in recent play, with its two losses coming by a combined 10 points. Fort Hays Tech has struggled defensively in its losses, allowing an average of 104.2 points in its five defeats.

The game tips off at 4 p.m. CST on Saturday, Dec. 13, at the W.S. Scott Auditorium. It is the final contest for both teams before the holiday break.

For Cowley, the schedule resumes Jan. 3 at Garden City. Fort Hays Tech begins the new year at Dodge City on Jan. 3.