Preview: Belmont Bruins at Illinois-Chicago Flames CHICAGO (Interstat) — A surging Belmont team aims to continue its dominant run through the Missouri Valley Conference when it visits Illinois-Chicago on Friday night at UIC Pavilion. The Bruins (21-3, 12-1 MVC) enter on a seven-game winning streak, including a 103-90 offensive showcase against Drake on Tuesday. Belmont boasts the league’s best record and has scored 80 or more points in four of its last five contests. Illinois-Chicago (13-11, 8-5) looks to solidify its standing and secure a season split after falling 87-84 at Belmont on Dec. 13. The Flames had a six-game win streak snapped in a 81-74 loss at Murray State on Tuesday. A key matchup will feature Belmont’s Sam Orme against UIC’s Rashund Washington. Orme is coming off a season-high 22 points in 24 minutes against Drake, showcasing efficient scoring punch. Washington, the Flames’ leading scorer in the last meeting, also dropped 22 points in the loss to Murray State. Belmont’s offense is multifaceted, as seen against Drake where Jack Smiley (18 points, 6 assists) and Drew Scharnowski (19 points) complemented Orme. The Bruins lead the MVC in scoring offense. The Flames counter with guard Ahmad Henderson, who scored 20 points last outing. UIC has found success recently with defense, holding opponents under 70 points in five games during its recent streak. UIC will need a strong defensive effort at home to slow Belmont’s high-powered attack and improve its 8-3 record at the Pavilion. The Bruins, seeking to maintain their conference lead, have proven adept at winning close games, with four MVC victories by four points or fewer. Tip-off is scheduled for 8 p.m. EST Friday.