Reigning Mountain East Conference Player of the Week Marissa Brown has her Hilltoppers on a two-game winning streak as they set to host UVa-Wise in a league affair Thursday. Last week, Brown averaged 22.5 points, 11.5 rebounds and six blocks per game as West Liberty knocked off Shepherd 72-59 at home before downing Fairmont State 78-77 on the road. On the season, Brown is averaging a double-double with a league-leading 22 points per game and 10 rebounds a contest. Earlier this season, Brown posted a double-double with 20 points and 13 rebounds as the 'Toppers claimed a 73-53 win over UVa-Wise at the Prior Center.  The third highest scoring team in the league at 77.3 points per game, West Liberty has had issues on defense. The 'Toppers allow a league-worst 79.6 points per game and opponents are shooting 43.5 percent from the field. The final eight games of the season are crucial for Kyle Cooper's squad. Entering play Thursday, West Liberty is in a three-way tie for third place and sits just two games back of second place Notre Dame College in the conference race.

UVa-Wise will try to halt its four-game losing streak while picking up its first road win of the season Thursday at West Liberty. Most recently, Glenville State raced out to a 17-2 first quarter lead en route to a 108-69 win over the Cavaliers. Sophomore forward Cynita Webb posted a double-double in the loss with 20 points and 13 rebounds on 10-of-12 shooting. Turnovers continue to be an issue for Elise Clyburn's squad. Saturday, UVa-Wise committed 30 turnovers which led to 39 Glenville State points. If the Cavs have any hope of making the league tournament, it must start winning games. Entering Thursday, UVa-Wise is three games back of the final tournament spot with eight games to play. A positive for UVa-Wise is that it still has games remaining against Shepherd and Fairmont State who are currently tied for the final tournament spot.