Preview: Charlotte 49ers at Rice Owls Women’s Basketball HOUSTON (Interstat) — A surging Rice squad hosts a Charlotte team seeking consistency in an American Athletic Conference women’s basketball matchup Wednesday night at Tudor Fieldhouse. The Owls (12-3) enter on a five-game winning streak, including an 83-75 road victory over Florida Atlantic last Saturday. Rice has been dominant at home, boasting a 7-1 record in Houston this season. Charlotte (8-7) has won two straight, most recently defeating UAB 71-60 at home. The 49ers have struggled on the road, however, with a 1-4 record away from Halton Arena. The game features a compelling backcourt duel between two of the conference’s top guards. Rice is led by Victoria Flores, who is coming off a 21-point, five-rebound, six-assist performance against FAU. Over her last five games, Flores is averaging 10 points and 3.8 assists. She will be matched by Charlotte’s dynamic Tanajah Hayes. The guard is averaging 13.8 points and 6.4 assists over her last five contests. Hayes erupted for 23 points, six rebounds and five assists in the win over UAB, demonstrating her capacity to carry the offensive load. Rice’s balance has been key to its success. Alongside Flores, forward Hailey Adams averages a double-double (11 points, 11 rebounds) and Aniah Alexis adds 19 points per game. The Owls have held opponents to 60 points or fewer in eight of their 12 wins. Charlotte will need production beyond Hayes. Janavia Gage provided a strong inside presence with 10 points and nine rebounds against UAB, while Imani Smith added six points and five rebounds. Rice holds a decisive edge in record and home-court advantage, but Charlotte’s recent momentum, fueled by Hayes’ high-level play, suggests the 49ers are capable of an upset as conference play intensifies. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. CST Wednesday.