Last night, the Providence College Friars defeated their second consecutive top 25 team when they defeated Villanova (8 in the AP poll) 83-68. Five days before, they defeated Louisville (23 in the AP poll) 72-67. This marked the first time in twelve years that they managed to defeat ranked opponents in back to back games.
However, these two wins are the only two victories that the Friars have in the Big East. As of this point, they are outside of their own conference tournament, and are in no way assured a berth in the NCAA tournament. While these two victories have been impressive, the Friars have also lost to some terrible programs, notably the University of Southern Florida and LaSalle.
Perhaps these two wins are a springboard for the rest of their season. In these victories, the Friars have played excellent defense, have been contesting every shot, and have taken care of the basketball. With their next two games being against Seton Hall and a rematch with USF, they have the potential to go on a little run.
The two victories over Villanova and Louisville are impressive. They just won't mean anything when March comes around.
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