NEW HAVEN, Conn. (Interstat) — A pivotal Ivy League rematch with championship implications is set for Saturday when the Yale Bulldogs host the Penn Quakers at Payne Whitney Gymnasium. The Bulldogs (19-4, 8-1 Ivy), riding a five-game winning streak, sit atop the conference standings and can take a major step toward securing the regular-season title. The Quakers (13-10, 6-3), winners of three straight, aim to avenge a 77-60 home loss to Yale on Jan. 24 and tighten the race. Yale, led by versatile forward Isaac Celiscar, has been dominant in league play. Celiscar posted a triple-double with 12 points, 12 rebounds and six assists in the first meeting against Penn. He is coming off a 40-minute, 17-point performance in a critical 76-75 overtime road win at Harvard last Saturday. Penn counters with guard AJ Levine, who has been instrumental during its recent surge. Levine scored 16 points in an 82-76 win over Cornell last Saturday and tallied 17 points and seven assists in the prior loss to Yale. His backcourt play will be crucial against Yale’s stout defense. The Bulldogs have defended their home court fiercely, boasting a 10-1 record at Payne Whitney this season. Their balanced attack, featuring Casey Simmons and Jordan Brathwaite alongside Celiscar, presents a multifaceted challenge. Penn’s resurgence has been fueled by improved scoring, with Jay Jones and TJ Power providing consistent support for Levine. To reverse January’s result, the Quakers must improve their offensive efficiency after shooting just 36.2% from the field in the first matchup. Yale won the rebounding battle 42-28 in the January contest, a key area Penn must address. The Bulldogs’ depth and experience in close games, evidenced by recent overtime victories, will be tested against a Penn team fighting for its postseason positioning. Tipoff is scheduled for Saturday afternoon. Yale visits Cornell next Friday, while Penn hosts Dartmouth.