DURHAM, N.C. (Interstat) — Two teams seeking momentum in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference will meet Monday when the Morgan State Bears visit the North Carolina Central Eagles at McLendon-McDougald Gymnasium. Both teams enter with nearly identical records, as Morgan State (10-13) holds a slim edge over North Carolina Central (9-14). The matchup is a quick rematch from Jan. 12, when the Eagles secured an 89-78 road victory over the Bears. Morgan State arrives with confidence from a three-game winning streak, including a 79-71 home victory over Maryland-Eastern Shore on Feb. 7. A key factor has been the defensive presence of forward Marland Harris. In the win over UMES, Harris posted a double-double with 17 points, 11 rebounds and four blocks. Over his last five games, he has recorded 20 blocked shots, anchoring the Bears’ interior defense. North Carolina Central looks to rebound from a narrow 58-56 home loss to Coppin State on Saturday. The Eagles have relied on the all-around play of guard Dionte Johnson, who is coming off a 13-point, seven-rebound, six-assist performance in that defeat. Johnson has been a consistent facilitator, averaging 6.3 assists over his last four contests. The January meeting between these teams was characterized by offensive efficiency, particularly from the Eagles. Containing NCCU’s backcourt, led by Johnson, and finding an answer for Gage Lattimore—who had 21 points and 10 rebounds in the Eagles’ last outing—will be critical for Morgan State. Conversely, the Eagles must solve Harris’s shot-blocking to improve their scoring in the paint. Monday’s contest represents a pivotal opportunity for both squads to climb the MEAC standings as the regular season enters its final weeks. Tipoff is set for 7:30 p.m. EST.