Carmel native hits game-winner as Butler beats Providence in 2 overtimes

INDIANAPOLIS — In a wild, back and forth game, Butler basketball holds on to beat Providence 113-110 in double overtime.

Evan Haywood hit the go-ahead 3-pointer with 35 seconds left in double overtime.

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Michael Ajayi led Butler (8-2, 1-0 Big East) with 28 points and 15 rebounds.

Here’s what I liked and disliked, and what the win means.

What I liked about Butler basketball’s win over Providence

It may go unnoticed, but Drayton Jones’ ability to guard the high ball screen is a huge asset to Butler’s defense. Jones has the foot speed to hedge and recover, quickly getting back into position and preventing an entry pass to his man. Jones processes the game at a high level, showing why he said the game was slowing down for him heading into Big East Conference play.

Haywood had a game to remember. The Carmel native started the game 4 for 4 with three made 3-pointers. His 11 first-half points were just three away from his career high of 14. Haywood’s quickly proven to be one of the better shooters on the team. If he’s knocking down shots, he’ll continue to earn extended minutes. Haywood finished with 18 points.

One game after Boise State used Butler’s pressure defense against it to get back cut after back cut, Butler did the same to Providence. Jamie Kaiser Jr. scored on consecutive back cuts in the first half. Finley Bizjack and Azavier “Stink” Robinson also added baskets on back cuts in the first half.

Ajayi continues to show why he’s one of the best two-way players in the Big East. His willingness to dive on the floor and steal the ball from Jason Edwards swung the game in Butler’s direction. His boards and defense down the stretch helps seal the win.

What I disliked about Butler’s win

After a strong start on the boards, Providence won the rebounding battle early. The Friars outrebounded Butler 19-17 in the first half. The Friars turned seven offensive rebounds into eight second-chance points. Many of the offensive rebounds were on long shots, but the Dawgs needed to do a…

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Publish date : 2025-12-13 22:05:00

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