LAWRENCE TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Interstat) — The Iona Gaels look to solidify their position in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference standings when they visit the struggling Rider Broncs in a women’s basketball matchup Thursday night at Alumni Gymnasium.

Iona (11-7, 4-3 MAAC) enters having split its last six games but remains well ahead of Rider (4-14, 2-5) in the conference hierarchy. The Gaels defeated the Broncs decisively, 72-53, just over three weeks ago on Dec. 29 in New Rochelle. Rider seeks to halt a two-game skid and find consistency in league play.

A key focus will be Iona junior guard Isabellah Middleton, who is coming off a career-high 26-point performance in a 63-57 loss to Saint Peter’s on Monday. Middleton has been a dynamic scorer and rebounder, averaging 15.4 points and 5.4 rebounds over her last seven contests. Her versatility will challenge the Rider defense.

The Broncs counter with senior guard Aina Perez Mesquida, a steadying presence who logged 40 minutes in a Jan. 1 loss to Merrimack. Perez Mesquida averages 8.3 points per game this season but was held to five points in the first meeting with Iona. Rider will need a stronger offensive output from her and supporting players like Aliya McIver to keep pace.

Iona’s recent success has been fueled by balance. Alongside Middleton, forward Zoey Ward is a force inside, posting a 13-point, 14-rebound double-double against Saint Peter’s. Rider’s path to an upset likely requires controlling the tempo and improving on its conference-worst scoring margin, having been outscored by an average of 12.4 points in MAAC games.

The Gaels have shown vulnerability on the road in conference play, including an 80-54 loss at Quinnipiac earlier this month. Rider’s two MAAC victories this season both came at home, offering a glimmer of hope for the Broncs in this rematch.

Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. EST. Iona travels to face Marist on Saturday, while Rider visits Saint Peter’s.