Preview: Milwaukee Panthers at Northern Kentucky Norse

HIGHLAND HEIGHTS, Ky. (Interstat) — Two Horizon League women’s basketball teams on divergent recent paths will meet Wednesday when the Northern Kentucky Norse host the Milwaukee Panthers at Regents Hall.

The Norse (8-11, 4-2 Horizon) enter with momentum, riding a four-game conference winning streak. They are coming off an 81-76 road victory at Robert Morris on Saturday, powered by a career-high 24 points from junior guard Karina Bystry. Bystry has been instrumental in the streak, averaging 17.1 points over her last seven contests and scoring 20 or more three times in that span.

Conversely, the Panthers (6-12, 2-4) have lost three of their last four, including a 66-45 defeat at Oakland on Saturday. Milwaukee has struggled offensively in league play, failing to reach 60 points in three of its six conference games.

The matchup features a contrast in offensive firepower. Northern Kentucky, averaging 73.4 points during its win streak, will look to Bystry and supporting scorers like Taysha Rushton and Mya Meredith to push the pace. Milwaukee, which allows 66.1 points per game, will need to contain that trio to have a chance.

A key for the Panthers will be the production of guard Kendall Barnes. After a season-high 28 minutes and 10 points in the Oakland loss, her role appears to be expanding. Milwaukee is 3-1 this season when Barnes logs 18 or more minutes.

This game begins a critical stretch for both teams. Northern Kentucky aims to solidify its position in the upper half of the league standings before a tough upcoming road swing. Milwaukee seeks to halt its slide and gain ground before returning home for a two-game stand.

The teams will meet again in Milwaukee on Feb. 12.

Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. EST Wednesday.