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How to Watch
Time: Approx. 9 p.m. ET
TV: FS1
Online Stream: Fox Sports Go
Odds
Spread: Providence -7
Total: 133.5
Moneyline: DePaul +260 | Providence -320
The nightcap of Day 1 of the Big East Tournament pits DePaul versus Providence.
The Blue Demons, who are seeded 11th, won just four games in this truncated season. The Friars meanwhile won 13 and have won four of six heading into this game.
PC is unsurprisingly a strong favorite in this game. Even while the Friars have had their struggles on offense, they have not been as porous as their adversary. DePaul ranks last in the Big East during conference play in AdjOE, eFG%, TO%, and 2PT FG%. They rank 10th in 3PT FG%, and ninth in FT% as well. PC is ninth in AdjOE, eFG%, and 2PT FG%. But to their benefit, they rank sixth in 3PT FG& and TO%, and also sit 7th in FT%.
I’m intrigued to see what plays out on the perimeter. Providence and DePaul rank 1st and 2nd in 3-point defense in Big East play this year. Providence has allowed a mark of just 28.7 percent against conference foes, while DePaul’s allowed 31.9 percent. Granted, neither team has shot from deep much at all. That being said, don’t expect too many 3-point buckets.
That could make for a very ugly game. It’s no surprise that the total is so low in this one. Offensively speaking, both teams leave lots to be desired. With all that said, I think Providence is simply better than DePaul. And I think by night’s end, they will prove such. Unless PC just has a hugely off night, I don’t know how the Blue Demons can wrangle victory here.