HARRISONBURG, Va. (Interstat) — A surging Marshall team looks to continue its climb in the Sun Belt standings when it visits a James Madison squad seeking consistency Wednesday night at the JMU Convocation Center. The Thundering Herd (10-5, 2-0 Sun Belt) enter on a three-game winning streak, including an 88-81 conference victory over Appalachian State on Saturday. Marshall has been fueled by efficient guard play, particularly from Noah Otshudi. The junior is averaging 15.2 points and 4.7 assists over his last six games, including a 22-point effort in a narrow road loss to Troy. James Madison (8-7, 1-1) snapped a three-game skid with a 78-74 road win at Arkansas State on Saturday. The Dukes have relied heavily on forward Justin McBride, who is coming off a 21-point, 7-rebound performance. McBride has scored 20 or more points in three of his last five outings. Marshall’s offense has found its rhythm, scoring 84 points or more in four of its last five contests. Alongside Otshudi, Jalen Speer (21 points, 7 assists vs. App State) and Wyatt Fricks provide additional scoring punch. The Herd’s early conference success marks a turnaround after non-conference losses to Ohio, UNC Wilmington and Lipscomb. The Dukes have shown flashes but struggled defensively in recent losses, allowing an average of 92 points in defeats to Arkansas and Georgia Southern. Protecting home court will be critical as JMU embarks on a challenging January schedule. This matchup is the first of a home-and-home series between the teams, who will meet again in Huntington, West Virginia, on Jan. 17. Wednesday’s winner will gain an early advantage in the conference race. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. EST.