Preview: Bryant Bulldogs at Iona Gaels NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. (Interstat) — The Iona Gaels, riding a strong start to the season, will look to defend their home court against the struggling Bryant Bulldogs in a nonconference men’s basketball matchup Wednesday night at the Hynes Center. Iona (7-3) enters having won six of its last eight games, including an 81-69 road victory at Sacred Heart on Sunday. The Gaels’ offense has been potent, averaging 83.1 points per game. They are led by guard CJ Anthony, who is coming off a 15-point, 8-assist performance and has scored in double figures in eight of ten games this season, including a 26-point outing at Delaware on Dec. 1. Bryant (3-7) seeks to halt a two-game skid after a 75-56 loss at Brown last Friday. The Bulldogs have faced a challenging early schedule, with five of their seven losses coming on the road. Their success often hinges on the play of guard Ty Tabales, who has emerged as a consistent scoring threat. Tabales is averaging 16.0 points over his last five games, highlighted by a 19-point effort in the loss to Brown. The Bulldogs will need a significant defensive effort to slow an Iona team that has topped 89 points four times already. Bryant has allowed 75 or more points in six of its seven defeats. Conversely, Iona’s defense will focus on containing Tabales and forward Quincy Allen, who had 15 points and three blocks against Brown. This game marks the final nonconference tune-up for Iona before a Saturday trip to face Saint John’s. Bryant continues its road stretch before hosting Marist on Dec. 13. Wednesday’s contest tips off at 7 p.m. EST. Iona holds the clear advantage in record and offensive firepower, but will need to avoid a letdown against a Bryant team capable of explosive scoring behind Tabales. The Bulldogs aim to spring an early December road upset before returning to Smithfield.