MARACAIBO, Venezuela (Interstat) — The Superliga de Baloncesto’s top team, the Zulia Gaiteros, host Maracaibo on Sunday at 7 p.m. at Gimnasio Pedro Elias Belisario Aponte in a game that pits the league’s best record against a squad fighting to climb above .500.

Zulia (23-5) enters the matchup riding a dominant season. Maracaibo (15-16) has split the last four meetings with its in-state rival, including a 82-80 win Thursday at home. That victory snapped a two-game losing streak against the Gaiteros and gives the visiting team a spark of confidence heading into a hostile environment.

Maracaibo forward Myke Henry has been a driving force in the recent series. The 6-foot-6 forward posted a double-double in Thursday’s win with 15 points and 10 rebounds, plus four assists. Over his past four games against Zulia, Henry has averaged 15.5 points and 6.0 rebounds. He scored 21 points in a 69-67 loss Tuesday.

For Zulia, Nahziah Carter has been equally prolific. The 6-foot-6 forward scored 21 points in Thursday’s loss and has averaged 17.5 points over his last four outings against Maracaibo. He posted 20 points in the 69-67 win Tuesday and 16 points in a 97-73 blowout May 15. Carter leads a Zulia offense that has won six of its last eight games.

The teams have met seven times this season. Zulia holds a 4-3 edge, with Maracaibo’s three wins coming at home — including two of the last three games at this venue. Zulia won the first three meetings, including a 97-73 rout May 15.

Maracaibo’s recent form has been volatile. The team has alternated wins and losses over its last eight games. Guard Amorie Archibald contributed 18 points, four rebounds and five assists in Thursday’s win. Point guard Wilklerman Gomez added 15 points and five rebounds.

Zulia is coming off a narrow loss but has been dominant at times. Luis Duarte scored 18 points with six rebounds Thursday. Jesse Zarzuela added 13 points and four assists.

The Gaiteros will look to reassert control at home and maintain their lead atop the league standings. Maracaibo aims to even the season series and continue its push toward a playoff spot.