RUSTON, La. (Interstat) — Conference USA play opens Monday night with Louisiana Tech looking to continue its strong start and UTEP aiming to build on a rare win when the Bulldogs host the Miners at the Thomas Assembly Center. Louisiana Tech (7-4) enters with the better record and momentum from a dominant 90-37 victory over Dallas Christian on Dec. 22. The Bulldogs have won three of their last four, with their only loss in that stretch coming on the road to Tulane. They are 5-0 at home this season. UTEP (4-7) snapped a three-game losing streak with its 76-66 win over North Dakota State on Dec. 22. The Miners have struggled away from home, going 1-5 in road and neutral-site games. The matchup features two of the league’s top performers. Louisiana Tech is led by forward Kaden Cooper, who is coming off a 24-point, 13-rebound effort against Dallas Christian. For UTEP, guard Elijah Jones has been a consistent offensive threat, scoring 24 points in the win over North Dakota State and averaging 15.5 points over his last four games. Louisiana Tech’s home success has been built on defense, holding opponents to an average of 48.2 points in its five games in Ruston. UTEP will need to improve its offensive efficiency after shooting just 40.7% from the field during its recent skid. This game begins a pivotal stretch for both teams as they dive into conference play. Louisiana Tech will look to protect its home court and solidify its position near the top of the early CUSA standings, while UTEP seeks a statement road victory to reverse its early-season fortunes. The teams will meet again in El Paso on Jan. 28.