Event Preview
Overview
The Miami (Ohio) RedHawks are set to face the Maine Black Bears in a non-conference men's basketball matchup on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 8:00 AM Eastern European Summer Time (EEST). This game provides both teams an opportunity to refine their play ahead of their respective conference schedules. While not directly impacting conference standings, the outcome will offer valuable insights into each team's early-season form and potential for the remainder of the season.
Season Snapshot
Miami (Ohio) RedHawks
The RedHawks have demonstrated a strong start to the 2025–26 season, achieving a 7–2 record as of early December. Notably, they recently secured a 75–66 victory over Ole Miss in the ACC-SEC Challenge, matching their total wins from the previous season. This win also ended a 16-game road losing streak, marking their first away victory since January 2024. (reuters.com)
Maine Black Bears
The Black Bears are entering their fourth season under head coach Chris Markwood. After a successful 2024–25 campaign, where they finished 20–14 overall and 10–6 in the America East Conference, they are looking to build on that momentum. However, the team has faced challenges in the early part of the 2025–26 season, starting with a 0–9 record. (en.wikipedia.org)
Recent Form
Miami (Ohio) RedHawks
The RedHawks have shown resilience, particularly in their recent win against Ole Miss. Shelton Henderson led the team with 18 points, nine rebounds, and five assists, while Tru Washington added 17 points, including four three-pointers. The team also set a season-high by making 11 three-pointers at a 44% clip. (reuters.com)
Maine Black Bears
The Black Bears have struggled to find their rhythm this season, with an 0–9 record. Their most recent game was a 96–62 loss to No. 7 Duke, where they were led by Quion Burns and Keelan Steele, who scored 15 and 11 points, respectively. Despite shooting 94.4% from the free-throw line, the team couldn't keep pace with Duke's offensive prowess. (reuters.com)
Talking Points
- RedHawks' Road Resurgence: Can Miami's recent road victory signal a turning point in their away-game performance?
- Black Bears' Early Struggles: What adjustments are necessary for Maine to overcome their winless start?
- Impact of Coaching Changes: How has Miami's coaching transition affected their early-season success?
- Three-Point Shooting: Will Miami's improved three-point shooting continue to be a decisive factor?
- Defensive Adjustments: How will both teams address defensive lapses to secure a win?
Players to Watch
- Shelton Henderson (Miami): His all-around performance against Ole Miss, with 18 points, nine rebounds, and five assists, was instrumental in the RedHawks' victory. (reuters.com)
- Quion Burns (Maine): Led the Black Bears with 15 points in their recent loss to Duke, showcasing his scoring ability. (reuters.com)
- Tru Washington (Miami): Contributed 17 points, including four three-pointers, in the win over Ole Miss, highlighting his shooting prowess. (reuters.com)
- Keelan Steele (Maine): Added 11 points in the game against Duke, demonstrating his potential as a secondary scorer. (reuters.com)
- Matthew Cleveland (Miami): Scored a season-high 31 points in a previous game, indicating his offensive capabilities. (reuters.com)
Key Matchups & Storylines
- Miami's Offense vs. Maine's Defense: Miami's recent offensive surge, including a season-high 11 three-pointers against Ole Miss, will test Maine's defensive strategies. (reuters.com)
- Coaching Dynamics: With Miami's interim head coach Bill Courtney leading the team after Jim Larranaga's resignation, his coaching decisions will be pivotal. (reuters.com)
- Rebounding Battle: Maine's struggles on the boards, as seen in their game against Duke where they were outrebounded 46-28, will be a critical area to address. (reuters.com)
Fun Facts
- Miami's 75–66 victory over Ole Miss ended a 16-game road losing streak, marking their first away win since January 2024. (reuters.com)
- Despite their current 0–9 record, Maine has a history of strong performances, including a 20–14 season in 2024–25. (en.wikipedia.org)
- Miami's recent 31-point performance by Matthew Cleveland is the highest individual score for the team this season. (reuters.com)
Things to Chirp About
- "Can Miami's offense keep up the momentum after their big win over Ole Miss?"
- "What changes does Maine need to make to snap their losing streak?"
- "How will Miami's interim coach impact the team's performance?"
- "Will the RedHawks' three-point shooting continue to be a game-changer?"
Prediction
While both teams have their strengths and challenges, Miami's recent form and offensive capabilities give them a slight edge in this matchup. However, Maine's resilience and potential for improvement mean they could pose a significant challenge. The game is expected to be competitive, with Miami potentially securing a narrow victory.