EASTON, Mass. (Interstat) — Two teams seeking momentum in the Northeast Conference will meet Saturday when the Wagner Seahawks visit the Stonehill Skyhawks at Merkert Gymnasium. Both teams enter with identical 2-8 records in NEC play and overall seasons defined by narrow defeats. Wagner (8-15) is looking to snap a two-game skid after a 67-57 home loss to Long Island on Thursday. Stonehill (8-17) has dropped three straight, most recently a 68-55 defeat at Chicago State. The matchup features a compelling backcourt duel. Wagner’s Nick Jones has been a bright spot, averaging 17.6 points over his last five games. He scored 17 in the loss to LIU and erupted for 26 points in a Jan. 31 overtime win over Fairleigh Dickinson. His ability to create offense will be crucial for a Seahawks team that has struggled to score consistently. Stonehill will counter with guard Hermann Koffi, who leads the Skyhawks’ attack. Koffi is coming off a 15-point effort at Chicago State and scored 21 in a one-point win over FDU on Jan. 29. His backcourt battle with Jones could decide the tempo. The Seahawks will aim to avenge a 69-60 home loss to Stonehill on Jan. 4. In that game, Wagner’s offense stalled, a recurring issue this season. Recent history suggests another close contest. Four of Wagner’s last five games have been decided by single digits, while Stonehill’s last three home games include two overtime affairs and a two-point loss. With both teams tied in the conference standings and jockeying for postseason positioning, Saturday’s contest represents a critical opportunity to gain ground. Tipoff is set for 4 p.m. EST.