EASTON, Pa. (Interstat) — The latest chapter of the most-played rivalry in NCAA Division I men’s basketball will be written Saturday when Lafayette hosts Lehigh in a Patriot League matchup at Kirby Sports Center. The Leopards (8-17) will look to avenge a 64-59 loss at Lehigh on Jan. 24 and defend their home court against the visiting Mountain Hawks (11-15). Despite both teams entering with sub-.500 records, the intensity of the historic series, which began in 1901, guarantees a charged atmosphere on Valentine’s Day. Lehigh arrives with momentum from a 90-82 home win over American on Wednesday, powered by a career-high 33 points from standout guard Nasir Whitlock. The sophomore has been on a remarkable run, averaging 24.1 points over his last eight games, including a 32-point effort in an overtime win over Colgate on Jan. 31. His scoring prowess will be central to the Mountain Hawks’ attack. Lafayette seeks to rebound from a 68-54 loss to Loyola Maryland on Wednesday. The Leopards are led by guard Mark Butler, who posted 14 points and three assists in the first meeting against Lehigh. Lafayette has shown resilience at home recently, with close victories over Bucknell and American in late January. In the Jan. 24 contest, Lehigh’s defense held Lafayette to 35.8% shooting from the field. Replicating that defensive effort will be key for the Mountain Hawks, while the Leopards will aim for more efficient offense to support Butler. The game tips off at 2 p.m. EST on Saturday. Following this matchup, Lehigh visits Navy on Wednesday, while Lafayette travels to Holy Cross.