GREENSBORO, N.C. (Interstat) — A surging East Tennessee State team visits a struggling UNC Greensboro squad in a Southern Conference men’s basketball matchup Saturday at Greensboro Coliseum. The Buccaneers (20-8) enter on a strong run, having won seven of their last eight games, including a 78-69 road victory at Furman on Wednesday. Milton Matthews led the way in that win, scoring 18 points in 24 minutes off the bench. The guard has provided key scoring sparks recently, averaging 10.1 points over his last seven contests. ETSU dominated the first meeting this season, routing the Spartans 86-60 in Johnson City on Jan. 10. UNC Greensboro (12-16) looks to halt a two-game skid and reverse that lopsided result. The Spartans are coming off a 91-77 loss at Western Carolina on Wednesday, despite a career-high 35 points from Justin Neely. The guard has been a consistent bright spot, averaging 24.1 points over his last eight games. He posted 24 points and 13 rebounds in a win at Furman on Feb. 8, highlighting his all-around capability. While the Spartans have shown flashes, winning three of five before the recent losses, consistency has been an issue. They will need a major defensive improvement after allowing ETSU to shoot 54% in the January meeting. The Buccaneers, near the top of the conference standings, aim to continue their push for postseason positioning. The Spartans, anchored by Neely’s offensive outbursts, seek a season-defining upset on their home floor to build momentum before the conference tournament. Tip-off is set for Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026.