The Southern Utah Thunderbirds are ready to break their four-game losing streak when they host the UT Arlington Mavericks in a high-stakes Western Athletic Conference matchup this Saturday evening in Cedar City. With both teams hungry for a conference win, the 8:30 p.m. EST game promises intense competition and potential momentum shift for the struggling Thunderbirds.

Southern Utah enters the contest with a challenging 4-10 overall record and 0-1 in conference play, looking to turn their season around against the slightly more successful Mavericks, who bring a 9-5 record and 1-1 WAC standing. Despite their recent challenges, the Thunderbirds have demonstrated resilience, maintaining a solid 3-1 home game record and proving they can compete in close contests.

Key player Elijah Duval will be critical to the Thunderbirds' strategy, averaging an impressive 13.2 points per game and shooting at 46.3% accuracy. Tanner Hayhurst has also been a consistent performer, particularly from beyond the arc, averaging 1.9 made 3-pointers in recent games.

The Mavericks will counter with their own offensive threats, led by Raysean Seamster, who is shooting 52.6% and averaging 14.0 points per game. Marcell McCreary has also been strong from three-point range, making 1.6 three-pointers in the last ten games.

Statistical analysis suggests an intriguing matchup: Southern Utah averages 7.3 made 3-pointers per game, significantly outpacing UT Arlington's defensive three-point performance. The Thunderbirds also average 80.9 points allowed, while the Mavericks score an average of 71.3 points, potentially creating an exciting offensive showdown.

In their last ten games, Southern Utah has gone 3-7, averaging 73.7 points, 31.2 rebounds, and 13.5 assists per game. The Mavericks have been slightly more consistent, posting a 6-4 record and averaging 66.7 points with 29.8 rebounds and 11.0 assists.

As the teams prepare to face off for their first conference matchup this season, both will be looking to make a statement and improve their standing in the Western Athletic Conference. The Thunderbirds, in particular, will be motivated to snap their current losing streak and showcase their potential on their home court.