Preview: Tennessee-Martin Skyhawks at Tennessee State Tigers

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Interstat) — Two Ohio Valley Conference women’s basketball teams seeking momentum will meet Thursday when the Tennessee-Martin Skyhawks visit the Tennessee State Tigers at the Howard Gentry Complex.

The Skyhawks (3-5) enter with a modicum of confidence following a dominant 98-45 victory over Champion Christian on Sunday. Tennessee-Martin’s offense found its rhythm in that win, with Yar Tong scoring 17 points and Zakheria Thompson adding 12. The focal point, however, is guard Brittani Wells, who dished out seven assists against Champion Christian after a 13-point, four-assist performance in a road win at Lipscomb on Dec. 4.

Tennessee State (1-8) continues to search for consistency amid a difficult non-conference slate. The Tigers are coming off a 51-81 home loss to Chattanooga on Dec. 11. A bright spot in that defeat was forward Laila Lancaster, who contributed 14 points and a block. Her production will be vital for a Tigers’ offense averaging just 53.8 points per game this season.

The matchup represents an early opportunity for both programs to gauge their standing within the OVC. For the visiting Skyhawks, building on their recent offensive outburst is key. For the struggling Tigers, protecting home court could provide a crucial spark as the calendar nears conference play in earnest.

Historically, the teams have split their last ten meetings, adding another layer to the rivalry.

Following this contest, Tennessee-Martin will travel to face Tennessee Tech on Saturday. Tennessee State will remain at home to host Southeast Missouri State on Saturday.