The Providence Friars men’s basketball team is set to face Butler in the first round of the BIG EAST Tournament on March 12. The Friars have a strong historical record against Butler, with a 20-7 all-time mark, including victories in their last three tournament encounters. However, they enter this matchup with several key injuries, impacting their roster depth. Recently, the team concluded the regular season with a disappointing 12-19 overall record after a loss to Xavier, but hopes to bounce back in the postseason.
- Providence holds a 20-7 all-time record against Butler.
- The Friars suffered 59 combined player games lost due to injuries this season.
- Providence is 10-6 at home, 2-9 on the road, and 0-4 in neutral site games this season.
- The Friars enter the BIG EAST Tournament as the No. 7 seed.
- Providence has used 12 different starting lineups throughout the season due to injuries.
- Bensley Joseph leads the team in scoring with an average of 12.9 points per game.
Following their BIG EAST Tournament game against Butler, the Friars aim to advance further in the tournament, potentially seeking their third championship title. Their performance in this crucial matchup could set the tone for recruitment efforts and next season’s strategies.
The Friars must leverage their historical success against Butler and overcome their injury setbacks to make a significant run in the BIG EAST Tournament. This game represents a crucial opportunity to rebuild momentum and set the stage for a more competitive future.
Men’s Basketball’s Mela and Erhunmwunse Make BIG EAST All-Freshman Team
Providence College men’s basketball teammates Ryan Mela and Oswin Erhunmwunse have been named to the BIG EAST All-Freshman Team, marking the second instance in the program’s history where two freshmen received this honor in the same season. Erhunmwunse leads the team in field goal percentage, rebounds, and blocks while averaging 6.5 points per game. Mela, recognized for his impactful performances, has also contributed significantly, averaging 6.1 points and leading conference freshmen in rebounds per game. This recognition is a boost as the Friars head into the BIG EAST Tournament.
- Oswin Erhunmwunse has a field goal percentage of 71.9%, with 87 made out of 121 attempts.
- Ryan Mela leads BIG EAST freshmen with 6.16 rebounds per game and averages 6.1 points across 28 games.
- Both players have made significant impacts, with Erhunmwunse starting 23 of 31 games.
- The Friars will compete in the BIG EAST Tournament against Butler on March 12.
The Friars will look to build on their freshmen’s success as they prepare for the BIG EAST Tournament, aiming for a strong performance to secure a favorable position for the NCAA tournament.
The inclusion of Ryan Mela and Oswin Erhunmwunse on the BIG EAST All-Freshman Team highlights the future potential of Providence basketball, setting the stage for both individual and team success in the postseason.
