St. Bonaventure vs. Rhode Island: Game preview, TV schedule, prediction

St. Bonaventure will face a tough road test this weekend as they travel to Rhode Island to face a Rams squad that has won seven straight games.

Time: Saturday, January 13 at 11:00 a.m. ET

TV schedule: ESPNU, WatchESPN

Arena: Ryan Center in Kingston, RI.

St. Bonaventure (12-4, 2-2 A10) looked like a strong candidate for an at-large bid a couple weeks ago. However, consecutive losses to Dayton and Saint Joseph’s to begin 2018 have made the Bonnies a more dubious case.

Conversely, Rhode Island (12-3, 4-0 A10) has had a great start to the new year as the Rams have yet to lose a game in 2018. In fact, they have not lost in over a month since dropping a game at Alabama on Dec. 6.

St. Bonaventure would love to put an end to the Rams’ streak and secure a resume-boosting win this Saturday in the Ryan Center. In order to achieve this, the Bonnies will need strong performances from senior guards Jaylen Adams and Matt Mobley. Adams is the Bonnies’ most valuable player as he contributes in every facet of the game(18.5 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 5.5 apg, 45.4 FG%, 52.2 3P%). Mobley is a capable scorer as well (17 ppg) and will need to consistently make shots to take pressure off his back-court mate.

The Rams have a couple of dynamic senior guards as well in Jared Terrell (17.9 ppg) and E.C. Matthews (13.6 ppg). Interesting note: Rhode Island’s winning streak coincides with Matthews’ return from injury. Terrell and Matthews also have experienced teammates in seniors Stanford Robinson and Andre Berry that are potential “X-factors” for this squad.

Next: How many A-10 teams make our projected field?

Both teams have experience and will be tough opponents should they make the Big Dance. I give Rhode Island the edge because I think the Rams’ defense will be the difference maker. Plus, they have plenty of momentum and get to play on their home court. The streak moves to eight for Coach Dan Hurley and his Rams.

Final Prediction: Rhode Island 70, St. Bonaventure 62