DAVIS, Calif. (Interstat) — A pivotal Big West Conference rematch awaits Thursday when the UC Santa Barbara Gauchos visit the UC Davis Aggies at The Pavilion at ARC. The Gauchos (15-7, 7-2 Big West), riding a seven-game winning streak, seek revenge for an 86-93 home loss to the Aggies on Jan. 8. UC Davis (13-9, 5-4) aims to sweep the season series and solidify its conference standing. UC Santa Barbara enters with momentum, having dispatched Cal State Fullerton 83-69 on Saturday. The Gauchos’ offense has been potent during their streak, averaging 78.1 points per game. Guard CJ Shaw has been a consistent force, scoring in double figures in seven straight contests. He poured in 18 points in the first meeting against Davis. The Aggies counter with their own offensive catalyst in guard Connor Sevilla, who is coming off a career-high 27-point performance in an 80-72 road win at Cal State Bakersfield. Sevilla scored 13 points in the January victory at Santa Barbara. His backcourt matchup with Shaw will be critical. UC Davis has struggled at home recently, dropping two of its last three at The Pavilion, including a 74-80 loss to UC San Diego on Jan. 22. Protecting home court is essential for the Aggies’ postseason aspirations. The first matchup was a high-scoring affair, with both teams shooting above 48% from the field. Containing transition opportunities and improving perimeter defense will be focal points for both squads. With the conference tournament seeding taking shape, Thursday’s result carries significant weight. A win would keep UC Santa Barbara in the hunt for the regular-season title, while a UC Davis victory would provide a crucial resume boost and season sweep of a top-tier opponent. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. PST.