NCAA Basketball: Kansas State, Providence on the rise on latest top 25 power ranking

21. Providence (14-3)

Any thoughts that the Friars would not contend in the Big East were clearly misplaced. This Providence squad is playing their best basketball when it matters most and their hot play in recent weeks is starting to garner national attention. Sometimes it’s the offense, sometimes the defense, and other times this team has just done what’s needed to win these tough games.

This past week saw them get their best win of the season, knocking off #4 Connecticut 73-61 at home back on Wednesday night. Bryce Hopkins was fantastic with 27 points in the upset while Ed Croswell had a double-double (13 points, 13 rebounds) and the team shot 44% from long range. There wasn’t a letdown on Saturday, with the Friars knocking off St. John’s in a tight 83-80 win. All five Friars starters scored in double figures, with Noah Locke’s 20-point effort (including 5 3-pointers) one of the highlights.

Providence has gotten Big East play off to an outstanding 6-0 start, already winning three games away from home and knocking off both UConn and Marquette. It’s hard to ask for more from this team after a few rough performances earlier in the season. It’s clear that Hopkins, Croswell, and the rest of these starters are playing great basketball and they’ll surely be tested in the weeks to come. Next weekend gives them a tough outing on the road against Creighton and a chance for another premier win.