CEDAR FALLS, Iowa (Interstat) — A pivotal Missouri Valley Conference rematch is set for Saturday when Northern Iowa hosts Southern Illinois at McLeod Center. The Panthers (18-10) look to avenge a 65-50 road loss to the Salukis on Jan. 28 and continue their push for postseason positioning. Northern Iowa has won four of its last five, including an 81-60 rout at Indiana State on Wednesday. Max Weisbrod leads the surge, averaging 14.2 points over his last five games. He was held to just three points in the first meeting. Southern Illinois (13-15) arrives with momentum after a 66-61 road win at Drake on Wednesday. Guard Damien Mayo erupted for 22 points in that victory, showcasing the explosive scoring ability he has flashed throughout February. Mayo was limited to two points in the January win over UNI, but his recent form, including a 20-point performance on Jan. 31, makes him a central focus for the Panther defense. The Salukis have struggled for consistency but have shown they can compete with the league’s top teams, splitting their last six games. Their defense stifled Northern Iowa last month, holding the Panthers to a season-low 50 points and 32.7% shooting. For Northern Iowa, balance has been key. In Wednesday’s win, Will Hornseth scored 18 points and Ben Schwieger added 17 alongside Weisbrod’s 14. The Panthers are 11-3 at home this season. Southern Illinois will aim to sweep the regular-season series and climb back to .500 in conference play. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. CST on Saturday, Feb. 21.