CHARLESTON, Ill. (Interstat) — Two Ohio Valley Conference men’s basketball teams trending in opposite directions will meet Saturday when the Lindenwood Lions visit the Eastern Illinois Panthers at Lantz Arena. Lindenwood (4-4) enters with momentum from a dominant 99-64 road victory at Northern Illinois on Tuesday. The Lions have won three of their last four, showcasing an offense that has averaged 81 points per game in those wins. Guard Dontrez Williams has been pivotal, scoring 20 points in the win over Northern Illinois after a 19-point, six-rebound effort in a loss at Alabama A&M on Nov. 16. Clayton Jackson added 21 points and Anias Futrell had 15 in the latest victory. Eastern Illinois (2-5) seeks to halt a three-game skid, all coming on the road against high-major opponents. The Panthers fell 109-62 at Purdue last Friday, though guard Meechie White managed a team-high 23 points. White has been a bright spot, averaging 16.7 points over his last three contests. The Panthers’ defense, however, has struggled, allowing an average of 96 points per game during their losing streak. The matchup presents a contrast in recent form. Lindenwood’s confidence is buoyed by its first road win and its most complete performance of the season. Eastern Illinois, meanwhile, looks to rediscover the defensive form that delivered a 62-50 win over Tiffin on Nov. 19, its last victory. Historically, this is a relatively new conference rivalry. Both teams will be eager to secure an early league-affiliated victory as they build toward conference play in the new year. For Lindenwood, continuing its efficient offensive play is key. For the Panthers, protecting home court and improving defensive communication will be paramount to turning their season around. Tipoff is set for Saturday, Dec. 6, in Charleston.