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Providence Basketball: Friars are a sleeper contender in NCAA Tournament

Dec 18, 2021; Hartford, Connecticut, USA; Providence Friars forward Ed Croswell (5) reacts after defeating the Connecticut Huskies at XL Center. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 18, 2021; Hartford, Connecticut, USA; Providence Friars forward Ed Croswell (5) reacts after defeating the Connecticut Huskies at XL Center. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

Providence Basketball is the Big East regular-season champion and yet still flies under the radar heading into the NCAA Tournament.

Providence Basketball has had an undeniably contested season. The strength in schedules really speaks volumes when we are trying to assess the team’s overall position moving into the NCAA tournament. The Big East program began the start of their season with a win over Wisconsin. In my opinion, that was a clear statement game. The Friars are a very familiar name in the NCAA Tournament but this year, they will gain more exposure as they turn heads moving swiftly through brackets.

When college teams begin the season, we are constantly watching two things: the chemistry and the accountability that the team holds each other two. Let’s put the stats aside for a second and understand what makes great prospering teams. When Providence dropped to Virginia, it was time to see who was going to step up. Nate Watson, Al Durham, Noah Horchler, and Jared Bynum began to rally together and lead this team.

In a team effort, these guys were able to take down big powerhouses: Texas Tech, UConn, Seton Hall, and Marquette. These are solid teams that the Friars handled well. It is important to pay attention to the close games that could have easily slipped away from them; Butler (71-70), Xavier (99-92), and they dropped to Villanova twice February 15 (89-84), and March 1st (76-74).

Providence ended the regular season on an unsatisfied note. That is dangerous as we get closer to Selection Sunday. If the tournament began today Providence would be lined up to play University of Tennessee at Chattanooga according to the latest Bracketology of Joe Lunardi of ESPN. UTC has had an impressive season but not a terribly tasking season.

Providence villain story has just begun. Do not sleep on this team. They are coming into March ready to take revenge and make a statement for their program.