CHICAGO, Ill.- The University of West Georgia men's basketball team (0-1) continues its trip through Chicago on Thursday night, traveling across the city to face Loyola Chicago (1-0) at Gentile Arena. Tipoff is scheduled for 8 p.m. as the Wolves look to bounce back from Monday's loss to DePaul.

West Georgia opened the 2026-27 campaign against the Blue Demons at Wintrust Arena, falling 75-58 after leading at halftime. The Wolves established an early rhythm offensively, building a 21-13 lead with a 10-2 run after the game was tied at 11. Eight different players scored during the opening 15 minutes, showcasing the depth throughout the lineup.

The Wolves limited DePaul to 29.6 percent shooting from the field and 11.8 percent from beyond the arc in the first half. However, the Blue Demons found their offensive rhythm after halftime, using a 17-3 run to take control of the contest.

Newcomers led the way offensively for UWG, as Justin Redmond paced the Wolves with 13 points and four rebounds, providing an offensive spark off the bench. Juaquin Dixon added 10 points and six rebounds, while returner Chas Lewless finished with nine points, five assists and three rebounds.

Kenneth Chime led the Wolves on the glass with nine rebounds, including four offensive boards. He also made an impact defensively, recording two steals and blocking a shot at the rim.

Loyola Chicago enters Thursday's matchup following a 77-52 season-opening victory over The Citadel on Monday. The Ramblers established control early, opening the contest with a 12-0 run and holding the Bulldogs scoreless until the 10:39 mark of the first half. Loyola carried a 36-27 lead into halftime before opening the second period with another 13-0 run.

The Ramblers showcased their defensive pressure and ability to control the glass, forcing 19 turnovers and turning them into 21 points. Loyola also held a 43-26 rebounding advantage, including a 22-10 edge on the offensive glass. The Ramblers finished with 44 points in the paint and 18 second-chance points.

Dayan Nessah led all scorers with 19 points, adding nine rebounds, two steals and two blocks. Chris Jeffrey contributed 14 points off the bench, while Jason Schofield recorded a double-double with 10 points and 12 rebounds. Guillaume Grotzinger also posted a double-double, finishing with 10 points and 11 assists.

Loyola enters the season with a significantly retooled roster, returning just two players from last year's team in Xavier Amos and Nic Anderson. The Ramblers added 14 newcomers, consisting of 12 transfers, one true freshman and one international player.

Thursday's contest marks the first meeting between West Georgia and Loyola Chicago in program history.

UWG fans can stay connected throughout the game and the 2026-27 season by following @uwg_mbb on Instagram and @UWGMBB on X for live updates, news and results.