NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Interstat) — A surging Tennessee State team will look to solidify its position near the top of the Ohio Valley Conference standings when it hosts struggling Tennessee Tech on Tuesday night at the Howard Gentry Complex. The Tigers (13-7) have won five of their last six games, including a 96-86 road victory at Lindenwood on Saturday where Aaron Nkrumah scored 22 points and Travis Harper erupted for 30. They currently sit in a much stronger position in the league than the Golden Eagles (7-14), who have lost seven of their last eight. Tennessee State won the first meeting this season, 88-76, in Cookeville on Dec. 30. In that game, the Tigers used a balanced attack and held Tennessee Tech to 41% shooting. Nkrumah has been a catalyst for the Tigers’ success, averaging 20.4 points over his last five contests. His versatility was on full display in the win over Lindenwood, adding six rebounds, four assists and a block to his scoring output. Tennessee Tech will lean on guard Mekhi Cameron, who is coming off a 15-point, four-rebound, three-assist effort in a narrow 62-58 loss at SIU Edwardsville. Cameron’s scoring has been inconsistent, but he leads the team in minutes and is a key facilitator. The Golden Eagles’ recent skid has been marked by offensive struggles, failing to reach 70 points in five of their last six games. Containing Nkrumah and the efficient Tigers’ offense, which has scored 90 or more points three times in January, will be a significant challenge. For Tennessee State, this begins a crucial two-game homestand before hitting the road. For Tennessee Tech, it represents a critical opportunity to halt its slide and gain ground in the conference race. Tipoff is scheduled for 8:30 p.m. EST.