Providence aims to enter Big East play on a three-game win streak and beat a second straight in-state opponent when it hosts Brown on Tuesday night in the continuation of an all-time series that dates back to 1921.
The Friars (6-4) are coming off a 90-71 win Saturday over Rhode Island, beating their rivals from Kingston for the fourth time in five meetings by overcoming the Rams’ opening 14-2 run and shooting 64% in the second half.
“I thought it was a challenging game for us,” Providence coach Kim English said. “They’re one of the oldest teams in the country and their guards look it with their skill level, their forwards look it with how hard they play. I thought the Rams played really hard, but I thought our guys responded.”
Freshmen shined for Providence against the older, experienced Rams. Stefan Vaaks and Jamier Jones each scored 18 points to lead the way.
It was a career-best day for Jones, who netted 14 of his career-high 18 points (on 7-for-7 shooting) following intermission. Vaaks has done it all season long, knocking down multiple 3-pointers in every game after going 5-for-10 from distance against the Rams.
“Those guys don’t have a ceiling,” English said. “If they continue to get better and they continue to play hard and play the right way, they can have as good a career as anyone.”
As for veterans, UCF transfer Jaylin Sellers had a 14-point, 10-rebound double-double, while Oswin Erhunmwunse blocked six shots to up his nation-leading season total to 36.
Brown (5-6) makes the 10-minute drive downtown to Amica Mutual Pavilion following a busy weekend, earning a 75-56 win over Bryant in its own Ocean State battle Friday before beating Division III Elms 115-34 the next day.
Adrian Uchidiuno was one of four double-figure scorers and three players with three 3-pointers against Bryant, leading Brown with 13 points. Jeremiah Jenkins added 12 points, five rebounds, six assists and three steals.
“Bryant didn’t play their best game but we had a lot to do with that,” Brown coach Mike Martin said Friday. “It started with our defensive pressure, trying to wear down their guards and handle adverse pressure for 40 minutes. The ball went in the basket early. … When you hit 12 threes, your offense looks better.”
The two latest contests were Brown’s best from beyond the arc this season, including a 54.5% clip against Bryant.
The Bears were projected sixth in the Ivy League preseason poll. They have another major opponent on the schedule in Southern California on Dec. 21.
