KENNESAW, Ga. (Interstat) — The Kennesaw State Owls look to continue a strong start to the season when they host the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders in a nonconference women’s basketball matchup Friday at the KSU Convocation Center.

The Owls (6-4) enter the new year having won three of their last four, including a dominant 86-41 victory over Life University on Monday. Kennesaw State’s offense has shown potency, averaging 69.8 points per game during that stretch.

A key catalyst is guard Shania Nichols, who is coming off a 20-point, five-assist performance. Over her last three games, she is averaging 15.0 points and 4.0 assists, providing a steadying force for the Owls’ backcourt.

Middle Tennessee (5-7) seeks consistency after a up-and-down December. The Blue Raiders snapped a two-game skid with a gritty 46-45 road win at Wichita State on Dec. 20 in their most recent outing. Defense has been a hallmark, holding opponents to an average of 58.8 points.

Savannah Davis, who scored 10 points and blocked two shots in the win over Wichita State, is a player to watch for the Blue Raiders. The guard has averaged 6.5 points over her last four contests and will be tasked with helping Middle Tennessee control the tempo against Kennesaw State’s more up-tempo attack.

The game represents a final nonconference tune-up for both programs before each embarks on its respective conference schedule next week. Kennesaw State holds a slight edge in record and will have the benefit of playing at home, where they are 4-1 this season. Middle Tennessee, however, has proven capable of grinding out low-possession victories, setting the stage for a clash of styles.

Tip-off is scheduled for Friday, Jan. 2, 2026.