After 12 days away from the basketball court and after a 5 game losing streak, UTSA plays former Southland Conference rival Texas A & M Corpus Christi on Dec. 21 in the American Bank Center at 7 p.m.

The game will mark the 18th time these two teams have played each other. Historically, the Islanders lead the series 10 – 7; however, the Roadrunners won three of the last four meetings including an overtime victory last season in the American Bank Center.

Since winning their season opener against Texas Lutheran, Texas A & M Corpus Christi, currently, is on a losing streak of its own, losing seven straight games. The Islanders’ forward, Will Nelson, leads the team in scoring (13.5) and rebounding (6.5). Jonathan Jordan and Joy Williamson combined for a solid Islanders back court. Both players score in double-figures: Jordan averages 12.9 and Williamson averages 10.5 per contest.

Statistically, both teams compare very similarly; however, UTSA will need to concentrate on rebounding and not turning the ball over in the back court. UTSA’s Achilles heel this season has been the lack of depth at the guard position.

Kannon Burrage and Michael Hale III rank amongst the top scoring leaders in the WAC conference: Burrage ranks second with 18.3 and Hale III ranks fourth with 16.4.

UTSA’s backcourt will need to hit shots and protect the ball against a tough Islanders backcourt. If Burrage and Hale III can knock down some shots, creates some turnovers and protect the ball, the Roadrunners are sure to snap its five game losing streak.

What’s next for the Roadrunners? The Birds will open conference play when it hosts Utah State in the Convocation Center on Dec. 29.