Scouting college basketball

Texas-Pan American (1-15) at Northwestern (10-3)When: 7 p.m. at Welsh-Ryan ArenaNet: BigTenNetwork.comRadio: WIND 560-AMSkinny: Wildcats coach Bill Carmody doesn't like to be inactive for the two byes during each Big Ten season, so that's why the Broncs have braved this winter weather for a non-conference siesta. Former NIU assistant Ryan Marks is in his first year as UTPA's boss. His team has been on the road for all but three games this year, but at least this is a homecoming for junior Matt Mierzycki. The Glenbrook South grad averages 7.1 points and 5.6 rebounds. The Broncs aren't very good on defense, so look for NU to do what it wishes. Reigning Big Ten player of the week John Shurna ranks third in the league in scoring (17.8 ppg) and rebounding (7.1 rpg).UIC (5-9, 1-3) at Youngstown State (5-8, 0-4)When: 6 p.m. at Beeghly CenterNet: horizonleaguenetwork.tvAudio: espnchicago.comSkinny: The Flames have enjoyed a much-needed rest after gutting out four games in seven days. Presumably the rest won't affect Robo Kreps' shooting eye. Not only has he averaged 18.0 points over the last eight games, he has drilled 43 of his last 44 free throws. The Penguins were supposed to be one of the Horizon League's most improved teams, but that hasn't panned out. They have just 3 Div. I wins and just lost to Cleveland State by 22 at home. Sirlester Martin and DeAndre Mays lead the way with 11.8 points apiece.Loyola (11-3, 2-2) at Cleveland State (5-10, 1-2)When: 6 p.m. at Wolstein CenterNet: horizonleaguenetwork.tvRadio: WAUR 930-AM, WNTD 950-AM, WLUW 88.7-FMSkinny: The Vikings lost three of their five starters from the team that shocked Wake Forest in last year's NCAA Tournament. Norris Cole (16.3 ppg) and D'Aundray Brown (7.1 ppg, 5.1 rpg) are the holdovers on a team that has dropped nine of its last 11. Loyola just had its seven-game winning streak snapped. The Ramblers couldn't keep up their blistering 3-point shooting, but they need to find a happy medium between their first 10 games and their most recent outings. Through Sunday's games, sophomore forward Walt Gibler ranked seventh nationally in fouls drawn per 40 minutes, according to kenpom.com. No wonder his 86 free-throw attempts are more than any other two Ramblers combined.