PROVIDENCE, R.I. (Interstat) — Marquette seized control early and cruised to a 78-56 win over Providence in a Big East men’s basketball game Wednesday night at Dunkin’ Center.

The Golden Eagles built a 37-23 halftime lead behind a stifling defense that forced 18 Friars turnovers, converting them into 14 steals. Adrien Stevens led Marquette with 21 points, while Nigel James added 20. The Friars, held to 30.9% shooting from the floor, were led by Jaylin Sellers’ 18 points and Ryan Mela’s 17.

Marquette improved to 11-19 overall, while Providence fell to 14-16. An announced crowd of 11,426 watched the Golden Eagles sweep the regular-season series.