ROCK ISLAND -- The Augustana Vikings men's basketball team will face another important contest in the CCIW on Saturday, February 4 when they host the Carthage Firebirds from inside the Carver Center.

Augustana enters 7-14 overall and 5-7 in the CCIW following a two-point loss to No. 8 Wheaton on Wednesday. The two teams played to a even first half before the Thunder broke away with six minutes left in the game to go up seven. The Vikings slowly chipped away at the deficit, eventually getting it within one possession in the final moments. Following two misses at the free-throw line from the Thunder, Augustana had one final shot to tie or win the game, but lost the ball right before the buzzer went off to give Wheaton the 74-72 victory. Three Vikings eclipsed double figures, led by Colton Gillingham's season-high 12 points. Chase Larsen and Matt Hanushewsky both finished with 10. Mikey Hamilton added eight points and six rebounds in 25 minutes off the bench.

Carthage comes into Saturday with a 14-6 overall record and 6-5 mark in the CCIW. The Firebirds have dropped four of their last five conference games after beginning the CCIW slate with a 5-1 record. In their last outing, Carthage picked up a win over Marantha Baptist in a non-conference bout by a score of 87-62. Carthage was defeated in their most recent conference contest, falling to Wheaton last Saturday. The Firebirds boast four scorers in double figures on the season, led by Fillip Bulatovic at 17.4 points per game.

Saturday will be the 183rd meeting between the two programs, the most played games versus any opponent in Augie men's basketball program history. The Vikings lead the Firebirds 124-58 in the all-time series. Carthage defeated Augie in their earlier-season meeting in Kenosha by a score of 85-78. Anthony Cooper led the way with 23 points for the Vikings.

Start time is scheduled for 7:15 p.m.