HARTFORD, Conn. (Interstat) — The Connecticut men’s basketball team held off a persistent Providence squad for an 87-81 Big East victory Tuesday night at XL Center.

The Huskies improved to 20-1 overall behind a balanced effort. Tarris Reed led Connecticut with 19 points and four blocks, while Solo Ball added 17 points. Silas Demary contributed 15 points and six assists.

Providence’s Jamier Jones scored a game-high 20 points in the loss. Jaylin Sellers added 18 points for the Friars, who fell to 9-12.

Connecticut led 41-37 at halftime and maintained a narrow advantage throughout the second half, fending off multiple Providence rallies. A crowd of 10,244 attended the conference matchup.