NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. (Interstat) — A pivotal Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference men’s basketball matchup is set for Friday when the Saint Peter’s Peacocks visit the Iona Gaels at the Hynes Center. Both teams enter with 15-win seasons, but with contrasting recent trajectories. Saint Peter’s (15-9) has won three of its last four, including an 83-74 victory over Fairfield on Sunday. Iona (15-12) looks to halt a skid, having lost four of its last five, most recently a 70-68 defeat at Niagara. The Peacocks will rely on forward Zaakir Williamson, who is coming off a double-double with 11 points and 10 rebounds against Fairfield. Over his last seven games, Williamson has averaged 9.0 points and 4.9 rebounds, providing consistent interior presence. Iona’s fortunes often hinge on guard CJ Anthony, who leads the team in scoring during this recent stretch. Anthony averaged 13.4 points and 4.6 assists over the last seven contests, including a 20-point performance in a narrow loss to Fairfield on Jan. 30. The teams met just over a month ago, with Saint Peter’s securing a decisive 77-63 home win on Jan. 19. The Peacocks have been strong on the road in MAAC play, boasting wins at Manhattan and Quinnipiac this season. For Iona, protecting home court is critical as it aims to improve its conference standing. The Gaels are 9-3 at the Hynes Center this season. Toby Harris, who scored 18 points against Niagara, will be a key secondary scorer alongside Anthony. Saint Peter’s seeks a season sweep to solidify its position near the top of the league, while Iona desperately needs a signature win to reverse its momentum before the conference tournament. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. EST.