Preview: Struggling Panthers Face Skyhawks in OVC Women’s Basketball

MARTIN, Tenn. (Interstat) — Ohio Valley Conference women’s basketball play resumes Saturday as the Tennessee-Martin Skyhawks host the Eastern Illinois Panthers at Skyhawk Arena.

The matchup presents a contrast in recent fortunes. The Skyhawks (5-6) enter on an uptick, coming off an 86-78 double-overtime victory over Western Illinois on Thursday. The Panthers (1-12) seek to halt a nine-game losing streak, their most recent a 87-55 home loss to Lindenwood on Dec. 21.

Tennessee-Martin will lean on guard Sidni Middleton, who is averaging 20.8 points over her last five games. She scored 25 points in each of her last two contests, including a 25-point, 9-rebound performance in the double-overtime win. Kenley McCarn, who added 20 points against Western Illinois, provides a secondary scoring threat.

Eastern Illinois, still searching for its first win since Nov. 29, will look to guard Clara Glad to spark its offense. Glad has been a consistent contributor, averaging 11.6 points over her last five outings. She scored 16 points in a loss to North Dakota State on Dec. 11 and led the team with 11 points in the loss to Lindenwood. Tiny Lewis, who had 14 points and six rebounds in that game, is another key piece.

The Panthers’ struggles are underscored by an offense averaging just 54.2 points per game during their losing skid. Tennessee-Martin, while inconsistent, has shown a higher offensive ceiling, scoring 86 points in two of its last three wins.

This game opens the OVC schedule for both teams. The Skyhawks will aim to protect their home court and build momentum before a two-game road trip next week. The Panthers, in the midst of a difficult season, need a conference victory to build confidence for a January schedule that features seven more OVC games.

The teams will meet again in Charleston, Illinois, on Jan. 29.

Tip-off is scheduled for Saturday afternoon.