GRAND FORKS, N.D. (Interstat) — Two teams seeking a positive turning point in difficult seasons will meet Sunday when the Western Kentucky Lady Toppers visit the North Dakota Fighting Hawks at Engelstad Arena. Western Kentucky (3-6) arrives after a 53-80 loss at Miami (Ohio) on Dec. 7, its fourth defeat in five games. North Dakota (1-9) looks to halt a six-game skid following a 57-99 road loss to Montana State on Dec. 6. Both programs have struggled offensively, with each averaging in the mid-50s in points per game. The matchup features two consistent scorers who will be central to their teams’ hopes. For Western Kentucky, junior guard Jeniffer Silva has provided a recent spark, averaging 11.5 points over her last two contests, including a team-high 13 points in 25 minutes against Miami (Ohio). North Dakota relies on guard Mackenzie Hughes, who has scored in double figures in seven consecutive games. Hughes is averaging 14.9 points per game this season and posted 17 points in a narrow loss to Elon on Nov. 28. The Lady Toppers’ three wins have come against Kentucky State, Wichita State in overtime and Southern Illinois. Their defense has kept games close, with three losses by six points or fewer, including a 44-47 home defeat to Florida Atlantic on Dec. 3. The Fighting Hawks’ lone victory was a decisive 65-45 win over Wyoming on Nov. 21, a game in which Hughes dished out six assists. Since then, North Dakota has faced a challenging schedule, with losses to Montana and Boise State. Sunday’s contest represents a final non-conference opportunity for both sides before league play intensifies in January. Western Kentucky begins Conference USA action Jan. 2, while North Dakota opens Summit League play Jan. 1. Tipoff is set for Sunday afternoon in Grand Forks.