JONESBORO, Ark. (Interstat) — A critical Sun Belt Conference men’s basketball matchup with postseason implications is set for Saturday when the South Alabama Jaguars visit the Arkansas State Red Wolves at Convocation Center. South Alabama (18-7) enters on a high note after an 84-78 road victory at Southern Mississippi on Thursday, powered by a career-high 34 points from standout guard Jayden Cooper. The Jaguars have won five of their last six games and currently hold a more favorable position in the league standings. Arkansas State (16-10) is also riding momentum, coming off a dominant 103-70 home win over Louisiana-Monroe. The Red Wolves have won three straight, showcasing an explosive offense that has averaged over 88 points per game during that stretch. The contest is a quick rematch of a Jan. 15 thriller, which South Alabama won 91-87 in overtime at home. Cooper was instrumental in that victory as well, setting the stage for a compelling individual duel with Arkansas State’s Christian Harmon. Cooper, South Alabama’s dynamic scorer, is averaging 21.4 points over his last five games, including his 34-point outburst. His ability to create shots will be vital against an Arkansas State defense looking to build on its recent performances. Harmon leads the Red Wolves’ charge, coming off a 21-point, 4-assist effort in just 23 minutes against ULM. The efficient guard has scored in double figures in eight consecutive games, providing consistent offensive firepower. The game pits South Alabama’s steady, defense-oriented approach against Arkansas State’s recent high-scoring surge. A win for the Jaguars would solidify their top-tier conference standing, while the Red Wolves aim to continue their February surge and improve their seeding for the upcoming Sun Belt tournament. After this game, South Alabama travels to face Marshall on Monday. Arkansas State’s next contest is at Louisiana-Lafayette on Thursday.