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Butler Basketball: Keys to success at Providence in 2019-20

By Lukas Harkins

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - JANUARY 04: Sean McDermott #22 of the Butler Bulldogs passes the ball in the second half of the game against the Creighton Bluejays at Hinkle Fieldhouse on January 4, 2020 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Butler defeated Creighton 71-57. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - JANUARY 04: Sean McDermott #22 of the Butler Bulldogs passes the ball in the second half of the game against the Creighton Bluejays at Hinkle Fieldhouse on January 4, 2020 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Butler defeated Creighton 71-57. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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INDIANAPOLIS, IN – JANUARY 04: Thompson of the Bulldogs handles. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN – JANUARY 04: Thompson of the Bulldogs handles. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

Butler basketball will look to remain undefeated in Big East play when it travels to face Providence on the road. What will it take to come out victorious?

Butler basketball has easily been one of the most impressive teams in the country so far this season. While the Dawgs are yet to secure a victory over a truly “elite” opponent, they have steadily taken care of business against quality teams en route to holding a 14-1 (2-0 BE) record. Their lone loss to date came on the road against a Top 5 team in Baylor by just one point. Butler is now regarded among the nation’s best teams but tough tests just continue to approach.

Butler’s next contest will come on the road against Providence. One of the hottest teams in the country, the Friars are currently in the midst of a four-game winning streak after starting their season at just 6-6. That start was wildly unexpected considering Providence’s returning talent from last season but it appears as though the team is starting to find a rhythm. The Friars have climbed up several spots on KenPom from No. 88 before their win over Texas to No. 69.

As a result of Providence’s play over the past few weeks, it is glaringly obvious that this team is better than its record. Head coach Ed Cooley has his team playing at a high level and they are currently leading the Big East at 3-0 with two true road wins already. Providence has a long road ahead in order to reach the NCAA Tournament but it is off to a strong start in conference play.

Butler at Providence marks an important game for both teams. The Dawgs have struggled immensely in “The Dunk” over the past few seasons and are also looking to continuously prove that they belong in the national Top 10 and as the favorite in the Big East. The Friars, on the other hand, are in search of another signature win to bolster their resume and build on their recent momentum.

So, without any further introduction, let’s dive a bit deeper in this matchup. As per usual, this preview is Butler-centric and will provide some opponent intel, three keys to success for the visiting team, and a pregame edition of Hark’s Bark.