ALBANY, N.Y. (Interstat) — A pivotal Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference men’s basketball matchup is set for Thursday when the Siena Saints host the Iona Gaels at Times Union Center. The Saints (16-7, 8-3 MAAC), riding a four-game winning streak, will look to avenge a narrow 75-72 road loss to the Gaels on Jan. 2. Siena has been strong at home this season and enters following a 78-63 victory at Canisius on Sunday. Forward Francis Folefac has been a consistent force, averaging 12.6 points, 5.4 rebounds and 3.0 assists over his last seven games. He nearly posted a triple-double against Canisius with 14 points, nine rebounds and five assists. The visiting Gaels (14-9, 7-4) aim to bounce back from a heartbreaking 71-70 home loss to Fairfield last Friday. Iona’s success often runs through guard CJ Anthony, who is averaging 13.0 points and 4.6 assists in conference play. He scored 20 points in the loss to Fairfield and was instrumental in the first meeting with Siena, though individual stats from that game were not provided. The Jan. 2 contest was tightly contested, indicating another close battle is likely. Iona has struggled on the road in MAAC play, with recent losses at Saint Peter’s and Rider. Siena, however, has shown vulnerability at home, including a loss to Merrimack earlier in January. A victory would solidify Siena’s position near the top of the conference standings, while Iona seeks a crucial road win to keep pace. The game tips off at 7 p.m. EST and will be broadcast on ESPN+.