The Providence Friars opened their Big East schedule with a dramatic 70-63 overtime win against the DePaul Blue Demons at Wintrust Arena in Chicago on December 10. Bensley Joseph and Bryce Hopkins led the way for Providence, combining for 39 points in a game that showcased clutch performances and strong defense.
Key Stats:
• Providence (7-4):
• Bensley Joseph: 20 points, 7 assists, and 4 rebounds.
• Bryce Hopkins: 19 points, 10 rebounds, and 3 assists.
• Jayden Pierre added 11 points.
• Providence shot 44% from the field and outrebounded DePaul 40-32.
• DePaul (7-2):
• David Skogman: 22 points (6-10 from three-point range) and 6 rebounds.
• Jacob Meyer: 12 points.
• The Blue Demons hit 11 of 33 from beyond the arc but struggled inside, shooting just 33% overall.
Game Recap:
DePaul held a slim 30-27 lead at halftime, but Providence rallied in the second half behind Joseph, who scored 11 after the break. The game entered overtime tied at 61. Providence surged ahead with an 8-0 run, including key contributions from Joseph and Hopkins. Hopkins sealed the win with a layup and two clutch free throws, leaving DePaul unable to respond in the final moments.
Quotes:
• Bensley Joseph (Providence): “We knew it was going to be a grind, but we stayed together. Everyone contributed, and that made the difference.”
• Chris Holtman: “We missed some key opportunities down the stretch, but credit to Providence for executing when it mattered most.”
The win gave Providence a strong start in conference play, while DePaul will look to rebound in their next matchup. Providence’s ability to dominate the glass and make clutch plays in overtime proved the deciding factors in this thrilling opener.
