MURRAY, Ky. (Interstat) — A surging Murray State squad looks to continue its dominant season when it hosts struggling Southern Illinois in a women’s NCAA Division I basketball matchup on Thursday, Jan. 29, at the CFSB Center.

The Racers (18-3) have established themselves as a regional power and enter on a high note after a dramatic 89-88 road victory over Drake on Jan. 25. They have won 10 of their last 11 games, with their only loss in that stretch coming at Northern Iowa on Jan. 23.

Murray State’s offense runs through guard Halli Poock, who is averaging 24.6 points over her last eight games. She scored 26 points with six assists in the win at Drake and was instrumental in the Racers’ 87-74 victory over Southern Illinois just two weeks ago on Jan. 15, posting 23 points and five assists.

The Salukis (6-12) have shown recent signs of life, winning two of their last three games, including an 86-74 home win over Indiana State on Jan. 22. Guard Jeniah Thompson led the way in that victory with 17 points and six assists. Thompson has been a bright spot, scoring in double figures in six of her last seven contests, including a 25-point performance against Valparaiso on Jan. 10.

However, Southern Illinois has struggled consistently on the road this season and faces a steep challenge against a Murray State team that is 9-1 at home. The Salukis’ defense, which allows an average of 75.2 points per game, will be tested by a Racers’ offense that averages 86.2 points per contest at home.

The Jan. 15 meeting saw Murray State pull away in the second half for a 13-point win. Containing Poock and improving defensive transition will be paramount for Southern Illinois to have a chance at the upset.

Following this game, Murray State travels to face Belmont on Saturday, Jan. 31. Southern Illinois’ next game is at Illinois-Chicago on Thursday, Feb. 5.

Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. CST.