HADLEY, Ky. (Interstat) — A pivotal Conference USA men’s basketball matchup awaits Thursday night as the surging Western Kentucky Hilltoppers host the .500 New Mexico State Aggies at E.A. Diddle Arena. Western Kentucky (16-11, 8-6 CUSA) enters on a four-game winning streak, including a dominant 94-73 road victory at Liberty last Saturday. Forward Grant Newell has been a catalyst, averaging 17.1 points over his last seven games and coming off a 21-point, 8-rebound performance against the Flames. The Hilltoppers have found their rhythm offensively, scoring 80 or more points in three of their last four contests. New Mexico State (13-13, 7-7) arrives after a 67-63 home win over UTEP, snapping a two-game skid. The Aggies are led by dynamic guard Jemel Jones, who has averaged 21.3 points over his last six outings. His scoring burst will be critical for an Aggies squad that has struggled with consistency on the road this season. The teams met earlier this season in Las Cruces, with New Mexico State securing an 80-64 victory on Jan. 8. The Aggies will look to complete the regular-season sweep, while the Hilltoppers aim to avenge that loss and solidify their conference standing. For Western Kentucky, protecting home court is paramount as they jockey for seeding in the upcoming conference tournament. For New Mexico State, this game represents a chance to climb above .500 and gain a crucial quadrant win. Tipoff is scheduled for 8 p.m. EST Thursday.