Providence basketball shows real progress in win over Stonehill. Here’s what happened

PROVIDENCE — There was progress for the Providence men in their second time out.

The Friars still have a fair bit to correct before facing tougher opponents, but this was better than the opening win over Central Connecticut State. Early shot selection, a willingness to attack the rim and smothering defense were more than enough to subdue Stonehill.

Providence broke this one open late in the first half and never looked back. The Friars coasted to a 76-49 victory over the Skyhawks at Amica Mutual Pavilion, an early Saturday night tip that sent the crowd of 11,027 fans on its way to a possible late dinner reservation downtown.

“Proud of some things we did,” Providence coach Kim English said. “Some improvement from opening night.”

More: Rhode Island basketball rallies in the second half to beat Holy Cross; who led the way

Nov 9, 2024; Providence, Rhode Island, USA; Providence Friars guard Corey Floyd Jr. (14) drives against Stonehill Skyhawks Josh Morgan (1) during the first half at Amica Mutual Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images

Jabri Abdur-Rahim netted 14 of his game-high 16 points in the first half and Wesley Cardet Jr. closed with 12 points and eight rebounds. Providence shot an even 50% from the field, dominated the glass and flashed its depth to the tune of a 39-17 advantage in bench points. The Friars didn’t particularly enjoy the 21 turnovers they committed – a number from a combined 11 players that English called “ridiculous” – but found stretches of offensive rhythm nonetheless.

“We have a lot of good players,” Abdur-Rahim said. “Everybody on our team stays ready to play and is capable of producing.”

Providence pulled away after holding just a 22-20 lead with 8:50 to play in the first half. The Friars closed on a 22-5 run, holding Stonehill scoreless for more than seven minutes and freezing them during a 1-for-12 skid from the field. Bensley Joseph’s 3-pointer from the right wing had the Skyhawks asking for a timeout with 4:43 left,…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/providence-basketball-shows-real-progress-125859484.html

Author : The Providence Journal

Publish date : 2024-11-10 12:58:00

Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.