YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (Interstat) — A surging IU Indy squad will look to build on its best performance of the season when it visits a struggling Youngstown State team in a Horizon League men’s basketball matchup Friday night at Beeghly Center. The Jaguars (6-16, 3-8 Horizon) are coming off a stunning 103-85 road win at Oakland on Jan. 21, where they shot 58% from the field. Guard Finley Woodward keyed the victory with 22 points and nine assists, part of a recent stretch where he has averaged 14.0 points and 7.1 assists over his last seven games. He will be central to IU Indy’s attempt to avenge a 78-55 home loss to the Penguins on Dec. 6. Youngstown State (10-11, 5-6) has lost four of its last five, including a heartbreaking 65-64 home loss to Milwaukee on Jan. 24. The Penguins have been plagued by close defeats, with three of their last four conference losses coming by three points or fewer. Guard Cris Carroll provides their offensive spark, averaging 20.0 points over his last three games, including a 34-point outburst in a win over Green Bay on Jan. 22. The game pits two teams on opposite trajectories in recent weeks. IU Indy’s explosive offensive showing at Oakland, which included 20-plus points from Kyler D’Augustino and Jaxon Edwards, suggests a team finding its rhythm. Youngstown State, meanwhile, is searching for consistency and a finish to tight games. Defense will be a concern for both. The Jaguars allow a league-worst 82.6 points per game in conference play, while the Penguins have struggled to contain opponents during their skid. Whether Youngstown State can cool off IU Indy’s backcourt or if the Jaguars can sustain their offensive momentum will likely decide this league contest. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. EST Friday.