ALBANY, N.Y. (Interstat) — Two New York programs seeking momentum before conference play begins will meet Sunday when the Cornell Big Red visit the Albany Great Danes at SEFCU Arena. Cornell (5-5) enters on a three-game skid following a challenging road stretch, most recently falling 93-90 at Samford on Dec. 7. The Big Red’s offense, averaging 90.4 points per game, has been potent in wins but has struggled defensively during its losing streak, allowing an average of 95 points in losses to Samford, Towson and George Mason. Albany (4-9) snapped a five-game losing streak with a 71-55 road win at Stony Brook on Dec. 17. The Great Danes have faced a difficult schedule, with losses to power conference foe Florida Atlantic and Ivy League contender Yale. A key matchup will feature two standout guards. Cornell’s Cooper Noard has been a consistent scorer, averaging 16.0 points per game over his last five contests. He poured in 23 points in the loss at Samford. Albany will counter with Amir Lindsey, who is coming off a season-high 40 minutes and 24 points in the win over Stony Brook. Lindsey has averaged 17.4 points and 5.0 assists over his last five games. Cornell’s offense runs through Noard and Adam Hinton, who scored 16 against Samford. The Big Red will look to exploit an Albany defense that has allowed 80.2 points per game. The Great Danes will rely on Lindsey’s playmaking and a rim-protecting presence from Okechukwu Okeke, who blocked seven shots against Stony Brook. This non-conference finale serves as a final tune-up before both teams dive into league action. Cornell opens Ivy League play on Jan. 5, while Albany begins America East Conference play on Jan. 3. Tipoff is set for Sunday afternoon.