INDIANAPOLIS (Interstat) — A surging Xavier women’s basketball team looks to continue its winning ways when it visits a Butler squad seeking consistency in a Big East Conference matchup Friday at historic Hinkle Fieldhouse. The Musketeers (8-3) enter on a four-game win streak, most recently defeating Saint Francis (Pa.) 63-51 on Sunday. Forward Mariyah Noel has been pivotal, averaging 19.3 points and 6.5 rebounds over the last four contests. She posted a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds in the latest victory. Butler (6-6) has alternated wins and losses over its past six games. The Bulldogs are coming off a 74-52 home win over Eastern Illinois, where guard Anna Wypych contributed 12 points. Wypych has shown flashes of efficiency, scoring 12 points in just 10 minutes in a November win at Dayton. Xavier’s recent success has been built on defense, holding three of its last four opponents under 60 points. The Musketeers’ only loss in that stretch was a lopsided defeat to then-Connecticut. Butler’s season has been marked by offensive volatility, scoring 101 points in a win over Indiana State but managing just 51 and 55 points in recent road losses to Seton Hall and Marquette, respectively. The game marks the start of conference play for both teams. Xavier will look to leverage its momentum on the road, while Butler aims to protect its home court and even its overall record. Following this contest, Xavier visits Seton Hall on Dec. 28. Butler faces a formidable test, hosting Connecticut on the same date. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. EST Friday at Hinkle Fieldhouse.