DES MOINES, Iowa (Interstat) — Two teams seeking momentum to open the new year will meet Friday when the Southern Illinois Salukis visit the Drake Bulldogs in a Missouri Valley Conference women’s basketball matchup at Knapp Center.

Both teams enter with identical 3-9 overall records, though Drake (0-1 MVC) is coming off a conference road win, while Southern Illinois (0-2 MVC) looks to snap a two-game skid.

The Bulldogs are buoyed by a 78-62 victory at Illinois-Chicago on Monday, powered by a career performance from guard Abbie Aalsma. The sophomore exploded for 30 points, six assists and four rebounds. She averages 19.4 points per game and has scored 20 or more in four of her last five contests, establishing herself as Drake’s primary offensive threat.

Southern Illinois fell 68-56 to Belmont in its last outing. The Salukis will lean on guard Alayna Kraus, who scored 20 points in that loss and is averaging 16.3 points per game. She has been a consistent scorer, reaching double figures in nine straight games.

Defensive consistency will be a key focus. The Salukis have allowed 68 points or more in seven of their eight losses this season. The Bulldogs, meanwhile, have shown volatility, following a 43-point outing in a loss to Minnesota with a 97-point explosion in a win at Indiana State.

This game represents a critical early conference opportunity for both squads to build confidence. Southern Illinois continues a road swing at Northern Iowa on Sunday. Drake hits the road for its next two, facing Belmont on Jan. 9.

Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. CST Friday at Knapp Center.