FORT WAYNE, Ind. (Interstat) — A surging Fort Wayne women’s basketball team looks to continue its strong start to the season when it hosts struggling Northern Kentucky in a Horizon League matchup Monday at Gates Sports Center. The Mastodons (9-4) enter the contest having won five of their last six games, including a dominant 104-31 victory over Aquinas in their most recent outing on Dec. 19. Fort Wayne’s success has been fueled by forward Alana Nelson, who is averaging 20.5 points and 7.2 rebounds over her last six contests. She scored 26 points in just 23 minutes against Aquinas. Northern Kentucky (3-11) seeks to snap a five-game losing streak, with its last win coming in overtime against Southern Indiana on Nov. 30. The Norse are coming off a heartbreaking 62-61 loss to Bradley on Dec. 21. Forward Abby Wolterman posted a double-double with 11 rebounds and eight points in that narrow defeat. Fort Wayne has established itself as a formidable force at home, boasting a 7-1 record in Fort Wayne this season. Their only home loss was to Nebraska in November. The Mastodons’ defense has been key, holding opponents to an average of 52.1 points during their current five-game home win streak. Conversely, the Norse have found wins hard to come by, particularly on the road, where they are 1-6. Northern Kentucky will need to contain Nelson and find consistent scoring beyond guard Maddie Moody, who led the team with 17 points against Bradley. This game opens Horizon League play for both teams. The Mastodons won both meetings last season. The teams are scheduled to meet again in Highland Heights, Kentucky, on Jan. 24. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. EST Monday.