SANBORN, N.Y. (Interstat) — Two Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference men’s basketball teams seeking momentum will meet Friday when the Manhattan Jaspers visit the Niagara Purple Eagles at Gallagher Center. Manhattan (10-16) enters on a modest uptick, having won two of its last four games, including an 80-68 home victory over Sacred Heart on Feb. 7. The Jaspers are led by guard Jaden Winston, who scored 21 points in that win and is averaging 16.1 points over his last seven contests. He posted a double-double with 16 points and 10 assists in a Jan. 30 win over Rider. Niagara (6-18) looks to bounce back from a heartbreaking 56-55 road loss at Quinnipiac on Feb. 7. The Purple Eagles have struggled in close games, with five of their last eight losses coming by six points or fewer. Forward Will Shortt has been a bright spot, recording double-doubles in two of his last five games, including a 14-point, 11-rebound, three-block performance in the narrow defeat at Quinnipiac. The teams met earlier this season on Jan. 11 in Riverdale, with Manhattan securing a 79-70 home victory. The Jaspers have won the last two matchups in the series. Both squads are near the bottom of the MAAC standings and will view this game as a critical opportunity to build confidence ahead of the conference tournament. Manhattan will aim to capitalize on its recent offensive efficiency, while Niagara hopes its defense, anchored by Shortt, can create a home-court advantage and reverse its fortunes in tight contests. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. EST on Friday, Feb. 13, 2026.