Preview: Rhode Island Rams at Maine Black Bears VEAZIE, Maine (Interstat) — The Rhode Island Rams, riding a strong start to the season, will look to continue their momentum when they visit the struggling Maine Black Bears in a non-conference women’s basketball game Sunday at Cross Insurance Center. The Rams (7-2) enter having won five of their last six, including a 59-52 road victory at Saint Joseph’s on Wednesday. Rhode Island’s success has been fueled by a balanced attack and stout defense, holding opponents to an average of 58.7 points during their current run. A key catalyst is guard Palmire Mbu, who is coming off a 20-point, four-block performance against Saint Joseph’s. Over her last seven games, Mbu has averaged 14.9 points, 5.3 rebounds and 2.0 blocks, providing consistent two-way production. She is supported by contributors like Ines Debroise and Brooklyn Gray, who combined for 21 points in the midweek win. The Black Bears (3-6) seek to rebound from a 58-35 loss at Penn on Thursday, a game in which they shot just 23.2% from the field. Maine’s season has been marked by offensive inconsistency, averaging 55.2 points per game. Forward Lizzy Gruber, who led the team with nine points against Penn, will be a focal point. She has shown flashes, including a 13-point outing in a win over Stonehill on Nov. 17. Rhode Island holds a clear advantage in record and recent form. The Rams boast a notable road win at North Carolina State (68-63) on Nov. 23, suggesting they are comfortable away from home. Maine, meanwhile, has faced a challenging schedule but has struggled against high-major competition, with losses to NC State, VCU and Brown by an average of 23 points. For Maine to pull an upset, it must improve its offensive efficiency and find a way to contain Mbu’s versatility. The Rams will aim to impose their defensive will and control the tempo from the opening tip. This is the final non-conference tune-up for Maine before America East play begins in January. Rhode Island continues its regional road swing before a crosstown clash at Providence on Dec. 10. Tip-off is scheduled for 1 p.m. EST Sunday.