SOUTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (Interstat) — The Atlantic 10-leading Rhode Island Rams showcased their defensive dominance and offensive balance in a commanding 69-39 victory over the Fordham Rams on Saturday at the Ryan Center.

Rhode Island, now 24-3 overall and bolstered by a stifling defense, held Fordham to a season-low in points and a frigid 28.8% shooting performance from the floor. The visiting Rams from Fordham managed only 17 field goals on 59 attempts and connected on just 2 of 10 from three-point range. The offensive struggles were encapsulated by an efficiency rating of 57.4 points per 100 possessions.

In contrast, Rhode Island operated with precision, posting an offensive rating of 108.7. While their three-point shooting was also off at 3 for 16, they dominated the interior, outscoring Fordham 44-26 in the paint and capitalizing on second chances with 19 offensive rebounds. Rhode Island also converted 16 of 22 free throw attempts, while Fordham attempted only four.

The most important stretch of the game came early in the second half, as Rhode Island methodically extended a 25-19 halftime lead into an insurmountable advantage. A 9-2 run to open the third quarter, fueled by interior baskets from Albina Syla and Sophia Vital, pushed the lead to 13 points. Fordham never recovered, as Rhode Island’s defense continued to force difficult shots and turnovers, leading to a 21-point margin heading into the final period.

Albina Syla, a 6-foot-5 center from Vantaa, Finland, led all scorers with 16 points and added nine rebounds, two assists and a block in 29 minutes. Her presence anchored Rhode Island’s defense and provided a consistent scoring threat inside. She was supported by a deep and international roster. Ines Debroise of Paris scored 10 points, while fellow French forward Aimee Michel came off the bench to contribute 11 points and four rebounds in just 11 minutes. Brooklyn Gray added eight points and seven rebounds, and Sophia Vital filled the stat sheet with six points, 10 rebounds and four assists.

Fordham, which fell to 10-17, was led by Alexis Black with eight points. Emma Wilson-Saltos and Tia Morgan each added six points. The team committed 15 turnovers and managed only seven assists on their 17 made baskets.

The victory marked Rhode Island’s second win over Fordham this season, following a 61-47 result on Jan. 31 in the Bronx. Rhode Island entered the contest as an overwhelming favorite, with statistical models giving them a 97.8% probability to win, and they executed accordingly to maintain their position atop the conference.

Fordham will look to rebound on Wednesday when they host Davidson. Rhode Island continues its conference title pursuit on the road at Richmond the same night.