GAME NOTES: The Western Kentucky Hilltoppers and Belmont Bruins begin what may bloom into a non-conference rivalry in the near future, as the two teams meet at E. A. Diddle Arena on Saturday night.

The matchup marks the start of a four-year series between the programs, which are separated by just 65 miles. Despite the close proximity, this is only the seventh meeting between them, and first since Jan. 18, 2000.

Belmont got its season off to a rough start last Friday, losing to Wright State, 73-70, as WSU scored the final seven points, but the Bruins have rallied to notch a pair of lopsided wins since.

The Bruins had five players score in double figures in a 96-76 rout of Trevecca Nazarene on Wednesday, which included a career-high 27 points from Taylor Barnette. Belmont's first victory of the season came two days earlier in an 87-62 verdict at Lipscomb.

Western Kentucky defeated Austin Peay at home in its season opener, 77-70, but was on the losing end of a 76-54 decision against Minnesota on Tuesday.

Nigel Snipes and Justin Johnson recorded 15 points each for the Hilltoppers, with Snipes also pulling down a team-high eight boards. Trency Jackson posted nine points, five assists and two steals in the setback.

T.J. Price, after scoring 22 points against Austin Peay, was limited to four points on 1-of-7 shooting and he committed seven of WKU's 25 turnovers.

This will be a tough road test for Belmont, but the Bruins are experienced enough and have plenty of weapons to overcome the Hilltoppers and their fans.