MURRAY, Ky. (Interstat) — A struggling Evansville team aims to snap a lengthy skid when it visits a Murray State squad seeking to solidify its standing in the Missouri Valley Conference on Saturday. The Purple Aces (6-21) enter the CFSB Center having lost seven of their last eight games, including a 38-point home defeat to Illinois-Chicago on Wednesday. Evansville’s lone win in that stretch was an 88-80 victory over Illinois State on Feb. 9. The team’s defense has been a persistent issue, allowing an average of 78.1 points per game this season. Guard Trent Hundley will be a player to watch for Evansville. He led the team with 12 points in the loss to UIC, but has been held to single-digit scoring in six of his last seven outings. The Racers (19-10), meanwhile, look to rebound from a 78-61 road loss at Illinois State. Despite recent inconsistency, Murray State has won three of its last five and boasts a potent offense, averaging 77.3 points. They defeated Evansville 79-69 in the teams’ first meeting on Jan. 7. Murray State’s fortunes often hinge on forward Fredrick King. The standout is averaging 15.3 points over his last ten games and recorded a season-high 22 points against Belmont on Jan. 31. His presence in the paint will be a key matchup. This game represents a stark contrast in trajectories. Evansville, long eliminated from conference title contention, is playing for pride and momentum heading into the conference tournament. Murray State, with a winning record and key victories, is jockeying for postseason positioning. A win would give the Racers a season sweep and their 20th victory overall. Tipoff is set for Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, at the CFSB Center. Murray State holds a significant historical advantage at home in the series.