AKRON, Ohio (Interstat) — A surging Youngstown State looks to continue its strong start when it visits a struggling Akron team in a non-conference women’s basketball game Sunday.

The Penguins (4-2) enter James A. Rhodes Arena having won four of their last five games, while the Zips (0-6) are still searching for their first victory.

Youngstown State is coming off a narrow 69-65 home loss to Toledo on Tuesday. Despite the defeat, the Penguins were led by strong performances from Sophia Gregory (16 points), Casey Santoro (15 points) and Sarah Baker (14 points). Their early season success includes a 64-50 road win at Mercyhurst.

Akron, conversely, is looking to snap a six-game skid. The Zips fell 64-57 to Xavier on Monday, led by Ni’Rah Clark with 13 points and Shaena Brew with 14. Their season has been marked by close calls, including a double-overtime 95-94 loss to Binghamton.

The matchup presents a stark contrast in early-season momentum. Youngstown State will aim to capitalize on its balanced scoring attack, while Akron desperately seeks a complete performance to get into the win column.

Following this game, Youngstown State begins a road stretch at Milwaukee on Dec. 5. Akron’s next contest is at home against Heidelberg on Dec. 3.