CHARLESTON, S.C. (Interstat) — A surging College of Charleston squad will look to continue its climb in the Colonial Athletic Association standings when it hosts a struggling North Carolina A&T team on Thursday night at TD Arena. The Cougars (15-8) have won four of their last five games, including an 89-84 road victory at Northeastern last Saturday. They are led by dynamic guard Jlynn Counter, who is coming off a 28-point, 11-assist performance in that win. Over his last five games, Counter is averaging 22.2 points and 7.4 assists, providing a consistent offensive catalyst. Charleston’s recent success contrasts sharply with the Aggies’ fortunes. North Carolina A&T (9-12) has lost three straight and five of its last six, including a heartbreaking 60-61 loss at Drexel on Jan. 31. In that game, the Aggies let a late lead slip away, a recurring theme in a season featuring several narrow defeats, including an overtime loss at Monmouth. The Aggies will rely on forward Trent Middleton to try and snap the skid. Middleton has been a bright spot, averaging 17.4 points over his last seven contests. He posted 16 points, seven rebounds and four assists in the loss to Drexel. Support from Lewis Walker, who scored 19 points against the Dragons, will be crucial. Defensively, the Aggies must find an answer for Counter and a balanced Charleston attack that saw center Christian Reeves add 17 points and nine rebounds last time out. The Cougars have shown offensive firepower, scoring 87 or more points in three of their last five wins. This matchup is the first of a regular-season series between the teams, who will meet again in Greensboro on Feb. 19. For Charleston, it’s a chance to solidify its position ahead of the conference tournament. For A&T, it represents an opportunity to derail a hot team and gain a desperately needed quality road win. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. EST Thursday.