Merrimack Looks to Upset Hot Marist in MAAC Showdown POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. (Interstat) — A surging Marist squad aims to protect its home court against a Merrimack team finding its rhythm in a Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference men’s basketball clash Monday at McCann Recreation Center. The Red Foxes (12-5) enter on a four-game winning streak, most recently an 82-67 home victory over Fairfield on Saturday. They have been dominant at home in conference play, winning by an average of 28 points in MAAC games at McCann this season. Marist is led by guard Elijah Lewis, who scored 17 points in 26 minutes against Fairfield. Over his last seven games, Lewis is averaging 12.6 points, providing consistent scoring alongside a balanced offensive attack. The visiting Merrimack Warriors (11-8) have won four of their last five, including an 83-71 home win over Quinnipiac on Saturday. Their success is heavily tied to the play of guard Kevair Kennedy, who has been a workhorse. Kennedy has played 40 minutes in three of the last five games, averaging 18.6 points, 5.2 rebounds and 5.0 assists per contest in that stretch. His all-around performance will be critical against Marist’s stout defense. Merrimack’s recent run has been fueled by strong play at home, but they face a challenge on the road against a Marist team that has lost only once at home this season. The Warriors’ only loss since the new year was a 76-63 defeat at Saint Peter’s on Jan. 11. This matchup is the first of a regular-season series between the teams, who will meet again in North Andover, Massachusetts, on Feb. 12. For Marist, a win would solidify its position near the top of the early MAAC standings. For Merrimack, it represents a prime opportunity to secure a statement road victory against one of the conference’s hottest teams. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. Monday.