DEAD RIVER CO. CLASSIC

Maine vs. Bradley

Time, site: Friday, 7 p.m.; Alfond Arena, Orono

Records: Maine 1-1, Bradley 2-0

Series, last meeting: first meeting

Key players: Maine – 5-9 G Melissa Heon (16.0 ppg, 4.0 rpg), 5-7 G Missy Traversi (14.0 ppg, 3.5 rpg, 4.0 apg, 3.5 spg), 5-7 G Kim Corbitt (11.5 ppg), 6-1 F Julie Veilleux (9.0 ppg, 6.5 rpg), 6-1 F Heather Ernest (8.0 ppg, 3.0 rpg), 6-0 F Monica Peterson (3.5 ppg, 7.0 rpg); Bradley – 5-9 G Sara Bailey (23.5 ppg, 8.0 rpg, 2.5 spg), 5-8 G Rasheeda Love (15.0 ppg, 6.0 rpg, 4.0 apg), 5-9 G Lora Weber (13.5 ppg, 6.0 rpg, 4.5 apg), 6-0 F/C Mandy Sides (7.0 ppg), 5-11 F Va’Nicia Waterman (6.5 ppg, 3.0 rpg)

Outlook: The Bears make their Alfond Arena debut against the Braves. UMaine, which is coming off an eye-opening game against a tall, talented Georgia squad, wants to establish its inside game against the Braves. UMaine and Bradley appear to match up well at the guard spots and each utilizes what amounts to a three-guard attack. The Braves, who have beaten Western Illinois and Eastern Illinois, like to turn turnovers into points by attacking at the offensive end. UMaine wants to demonstrate a more physical style of play, especially in the paint, which should help control the rebounding action. Bradley has nine newcomers this season, including seven freshmen.