Shorthanded Providence basketball can’t keep up. Here’s what happened vs. Xavier

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PROVIDENCE — Corey Floyd Jr. joined a host of players who couldn’t take the court. Kim English was ejected early in the second half.

If you were late for the opening tip or took some extra time coming back from the popcorn lines at the break, you missed the two most important takeaways from another frustrating Wednesday night at Amica Mutual Pavilion.

Providence’s shorthanded rotation imploded midway through the opening 20 minutes and its head coach wasn’t around for the conclusion. The Friars slid to a 91-82 loss against Xavier, a fourth straight to push them further down the Big East standings.

The Musketeers ripped off a 22-0 run to take the lead for good and withstood a less than impressive trip into the stretch. Providence cut a 26-point margin all the way down to three possessions with 3:58 left but came no closer. It’s the second time the Friars have dropped at least four in a row this season, and they’re now two games behind Xavier and Georgetown in the race to avoid the league’s bottom four.

Feb 12, 2025; Providence, Rhode Island, USA; Providence Friars guard Jayden Pierre (1) makes a basket against the Xavier Musketeers during the second half at Amica Mutual Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images

“I’m frustrated with us,” English said. “Because even still, without Corey, I still think we had enough if we’re disciplined and we play the right way.”

Floyd was involved in a motor vehicle accident near campus this week and suffering from symptoms in line with a concussion. He joined Bryce Hopkins (knee), Jabri Abdur-Rahim (knee), Wesley Cardet Jr. (iliotibial band) and Christ Essandoko (illness) on the bench. The Friars still put five players in double figures, but 91 points allowed represented the wrong kind of season high through 25 games.

“You think you’re going to win the game with defense, which is obvious,” English said. “You think maybe you’re not going to score as many points. We scored 82 points, which is enough to…

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Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/shorthanded-providence-basketball-cant-keep-132211125.html

Author : The Providence Journal

Publish date : 2025-02-13 13:22:00

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