POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. (Interstat) — Two teams seeking momentum to close non-conference play will meet Monday when the Sacred Heart Pioneers visit the Marist Red Foxes in a women’s basketball matchup at McCann Recreation Center. Sacred Heart (4-7) enters on a modest uptick, having won two of its last three, including a 61-59 victory over Rider on Dec. 21 and a 64-58 overtime win at Iona on Dec. 19. The Pioneers are led by standout guard Nalyce Dudley, who is averaging 15.0 points per game over her last five contests. She posted 14 points and eight rebounds in the win over Rider and scored 20 points in the overtime triumph at Iona. Marist (3-9) looks to snap a three-game skid, most recently a 76-67 home loss to Quinnipiac on Dec. 21. The Red Foxes have relied on the scoring of guard Lexie Tarul, who has averaged 16.0 points over her last four games. She poured in a season-high 24 points at Binghamton on Dec. 13 and followed with 22 against Quinnipiac. Both teams have struggled for consistency this season. Sacred Heart’s victories have been narrow, with their last four wins all decided by six points or fewer. Marist has faced similar challenges, with its last five games all determined by 10 points or less, including an overtime win at Lafayette on Dec. 7. This game, organized by the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference, serves as a final tune-up before league play intensifies in January. The Pioneers will aim to carry momentum from their recent close wins, while the Red Foxes hope to defend their home court and reverse recent fortunes. Following this contest, Sacred Heart opens a homestand against Niagara on Jan. 1. Marist hits the road to begin MAAC play at Manhattan on Jan. 3. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. EST Monday at McCann Recreation Center.