CEDAR CITY, Utah-This week, Southern Utah men’s basketball hits the road for a pair of non-conference tilts after starting the season 4-1.

Coach Todd Simon’s squad has been among the best in the nation in a pair of key statistical categories.

Among 353 Division I schools, the Thunderbirds rank second nationally in turnover margin (+8.2) and fourth in steals per game (10.6).

With a challenging slate still awaiting them this season, their proficiency and opportunism should serve them well moving forward.

The prolific Thunderbirds are also 24th nationally in points per game (86) and 18th in scoring margin (19.6 points).

Guard-forward Cameron Oluyitan leads the Thunderbirds with 13.6 points per game and adds 3.6 rebounds. Forward Dwayne Morgan is close behind at 13.0 points per game and 4.8 boards per contest.

The Thunderbirds will play at Long Beach State Wednesday against the Big West Conference member 49ers.

SUU closes out the road swing Saturday at Central Michigan University, Simon’s alma mater. The 6-2 Chippewas average 83 points per game and only give up 70.4 per contest.

Guard Larry Austin Jr. averages a team-best 19 points (along with 4.4 rebounds) for Central Michigan and complementary teammate, guard Kevin McKay averages 17.3 points and 6.5 boards a game for the Chippewas.

The Thunderbirds will return to the America First Event Center for a December 15 game against the Pepperdine Waves of the West Coast Conference.