Preview: Struggling Chicago State, Loyola Chicago Meet in Nonconference Finale CHICAGO (Interstat) — Two Chicago programs seeking momentum will meet Sunday when Loyola Chicago hosts Chicago State at Joseph Gentile Center. The Ramblers (3-7) enter with a bit more confidence after securing back-to-back wins, including a 73-68 victory over Princeton last Saturday. Loyola Chicago’s recent success has been anchored by forward Miles Rubin, who recorded a double-double with 12 points, 10 rebounds and five blocks against the Tigers. Over his last four games, Rubin is averaging 14.3 points, 7.5 rebounds and 2.8 blocks. Chicago State (1-9) aims to halt a four-game skid following a 95-53 road loss to Illinois State on Dec. 6. The Cougars’ lone win came against St. Francis (Ill.) on Dec. 1. Guard Doyel Cockrill has been a bright spot, scoring in double figures in four of his last five contests, including a 21-point performance in the victory over St. Francis. This game represents the final nonconference tune-up for both teams before league play begins in January. Loyola Chicago will embark on Atlantic 10 competition, while Chicago State will enter the Northeast Conference. The Ramblers have shown defensive improvement during their two-game win streak, holding opponents to an average of 70 points after allowing 80.3 per game in their first eight. Containing Cockrill will be a priority. For the Cougars, finding secondary scoring behind Cockrill is critical. In the loss to Illinois State, only CJ Ray (12 points) and Marcus Tankersley (10 points) joined him in double figures. Tipoff is set for Sunday afternoon. Loyola Chicago leads the all-time series 10-2, with the teams last meeting in 2017. Following this contest, Loyola Chicago travels to face San Francisco on Dec. 17, while Chicago State visits Bowling Green on Dec. 16.