Preview: Southern Utah Thunderbirds at Pepperdine Waves

MALIBU, Calif. (Interstat) — Two teams riding opposite trends will meet Sunday when the Pepperdine Waves host the Southern Utah Thunderbirds in a nonconference women’s basketball game.

Pepperdine (20-12) enters on a high note after a 71-68 home victory over UC Davis on Thursday. The Waves have won three of their last four, showcasing improved form late in the season.

Southern Utah (19-12), meanwhile, looks to snap a four-game skid. The Thunderbirds’ last outing was a 70-65 home loss to Texas-Arlington on March 12, part of a difficult stretch where they have lost by an average of 15 points.

The matchup features two standout performers. Pepperdine is led by Elli Guiney, who is coming off a season-high 27 points in 40 minutes against UC Davis. Over her last four games, the guard is averaging 18.8 points.

For Southern Utah, forward Ava Uhrich will be a focal point. She posted a dominant 26-point, 13-rebound double-double in a win over Abilene Christian on Feb. 22, though her production has fluctuated during the team’s recent losses. Containing Guiney and reigniting Uhrich’s scoring will be critical for the Thunderbirds.

The Waves have found success at Firestone Fieldhouse, winning five of their last six home games. Southern Utah has struggled on the road during its losing streak, falling at California Baptist, Utah Valley and Utah Tech.

Historically, the teams have nearly identical records, but momentum favors the home side. Pepperdine’s ability to close tight games, as seen Thursday, contrasts with Southern Utah’s recent struggles in second halves.

Tipoff is set for Sunday afternoon. The game marks the final regular-season tune-up for both programs before potential postseason play.