HADLEY, Ky. (Interstat) — A tightly contested Conference USA men’s basketball race brings a rematch to E.A. Diddle Arena on Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026, as the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers host the Jacksonville State Gamecocks. Both teams enter with nearly identical records and plenty to prove. Western Kentucky (12-10, 4-5 C-USA) looks to defend its home court and avenge a 78-67 loss at Jacksonville State on Dec. 29. The Hilltoppers are coming off a gritty 65-60 road win at Middle Tennessee, powered by a 14-rebound effort from center Blaise Keita. The 6-foot-10 senior has been a force on the glass, averaging 9.3 rebounds over his last three games despite variable scoring output. His interior presence will be key against a physical Jacksonville State frontcourt. Jacksonville State (11-10, 5-4) seeks to regain momentum after a 74-67 loss at Missouri State last Saturday. In that game, guard JaCoby Hill led the Gamecocks with 16 points, continuing a stretch of consistent production. Over his last seven games, Hill has averaged 12.4 points while logging heavy minutes, often exceeding 35 per contest. His backcourt leadership will be crucial in a hostile road environment. The Gamecocks have won three of their last five, including a decisive 75-58 victory over Middle Tennessee. Western Kentucky has struggled for consistency in conference play, alternating wins and losses over its past six games. The Hilltoppers’ offense has shown flashes, scoring 87 points in a win over Missouri State, but has also been held under 70 points in three of their last five outings. This matchup hinges on contrasting styles. Jacksonville State will rely on Hill’s perimeter play and a defense that held Western Kentucky to 67 points in their first meeting. The Hilltoppers will look to establish dominance inside through Keita and control the tempo. With both teams jockeying for position in the conference standings ahead of the final month of the regular season, Thursday’s clash carries significant weight for postseason seeding. Tipoff is set for 8 p.m. EST.