WKU Men’s Basketball returns to Diddle Arena Thursday night to take on the Jacksonville State Gamecocks.

The Hilltoppers come off a three game road trip, snapping their four game losing streak against rival Middle Tennessee State. 

Redshirt sophomore guard Teagan Moore has missed three straight games, with concussion symptoms. Moore’s presence continues to be missed on the offensive end, as the Hilltoppers are averaging just 64 points per game in his absence and 79.8 points per game when healthy.

“Questionable for Thursday, he (Moore) is in concussion protocol,” said Head Coach Hank Plona. “I would say if he keeps progressing the way he is, Thursday is a possibility. I think Saturday is a little stronger possibility.”

Freshman guard Armelo Boone returned to the court in the Hilltoppers’ MTSU win after missing two games. Boone made an immediate impact with 12 points off the bench. 

The Hilltoppers senior forward Grant Newell has led WKU in the absence of Boone and Moore, averaging 11.6 points per game in their last three.

Jacksonville State currently sits fourth in CUSA with a 11-10 (6-4) record, coming off a loss to Missouri State.

The Gamecocks are led by senior guard Mostapha El Moutaouaaki, averaging 18.5 points per game and 7.5 rebounds per game. 

“They have had a very good run at it. They play with confidence, they have great role definition and they know who they are,” Plona said.

The Hilltoppers opened up conference play against the Gamecocks, where Jacksonville State got the best of WKU on Dec.29, 78-67.

WKU looks for a different result, as tip-off is set for 8 p.m. and can be streamed on ESPN+.