Preview: Rhode Island at Dayton in Key Atlantic 10 Clash DAYTON, Ohio (Interstat) — A pivotal Atlantic 10 Conference men’s basketball matchup is set for Tuesday night as the Dayton Flyers host the Rhode Island Rams at University of Dayton Arena. Dayton (14-5, 4-2 A-10) looks to rebound from a rare two-game skid, having dropped consecutive road games at La Salle and Saint Joseph’s. The Flyers, who boast a 9-1 record at home this season, will rely on guard De’Shayne Montgomery to regain their momentum. Montgomery is coming off a strong 19-point, 7-rebound performance in the loss to Saint Joseph’s and has scored 20 or more points in three of his last seven games. Rhode Island (12-8, 4-3) arrives with confidence after winning two straight, including a 74-65 victory over George Mason on Saturday. The Rams are led by forward Jahmere Tripp, who erupted for 23 points and seven rebounds in that win. Tripp has averaged 14.7 points over his last three contests, providing a consistent scoring punch. The game features a contrast in recent trajectories. The Flyers’ typically stout defense faltered in their two losses, allowing an average of 74 points. Meanwhile, the Rams have found a rhythm, winning four of their last six with improved offensive output. Dayton holds the advantage in the all-time series and has been dominant on its home floor this season. Protecting the arena will be critical as they aim to stay near the top of the conference standings. Rhode Island, sitting just a game behind Dayton in the loss column, can announce itself as a contender with a road upset. The outcome will hinge on Dayton’s ability to disrupt Tripp and Rhode Island’s perimeter attack, and whether Montgomery can ignite the Flyers’ offense in front of what is expected to be another sellout crowd. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. EST.