Marquette at Providence
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (Interstat) — A pair of Big East teams looking to build late-season momentum will meet Wednesday when the Providence Friars host the Marquette Golden Eagles at Dunkin’ Center.
The Friars (14-15, 8-10 Big East) enter on a three-game winning streak, their longest in conference play this season, after a 79-76 road victory over Creighton on Feb. 28. Providence has found its offensive rhythm, averaging 84.3 points during the streak.
Guard Jaylin Sellers has been the catalyst, scoring at least 21 points in five of his last six games. He poured in 27 points in each of the wins over Creighton and Xavier, and had a season-high 36 points in a double-overtime win over Butler on Feb. 4.
Marquette (10-19, 5-13), meanwhile, is mired in a slump, having lost four of its last five following a 51-62 home loss to DePaul on Sunday. The Golden Eagles’ offense has been inconsistent, failing to reach 75 points in three of those four losses.
Guard Nigel James remains a bright spot for Marquette. He is averaging 19.0 points and 5.2 assists over his last five contests, including a 30-point, 12-assist performance in a narrow loss at Xavier on Feb. 14.
The first meeting this season was an instant classic, with Marquette edging Providence 105-104 in overtime on Jan. 19 in Milwaukee. That result adds a layer of anticipation for the rematch, with the Friars seeking revenge on their home floor.
For Providence, a win would secure a .500 overall record and strengthen its positioning for the upcoming Big East Tournament. Marquette is looking to snap its skid and salvage a difficult season by playing spoiler on the road.
The game will tip off at 8:30 p.m. EST and be televised on FS1. Providence visits Georgetown on Saturday, while Marquette hosts Connecticut the same day.