Fresh off an overtime victory, the Colorado Buffaloes are trading the Big Sky for the Big East, playing host to the Providence Friars for their third game of the season.
Tad Boyle’s team barely escaped Eastern Washington, 102-97, last Saturday, thanks to a career-high night for sophomore forward Sebastian Rancik. The Buffs struggled to contain the Eagles’ potent offense, especially point guard Isaiah Moses, who put up 30 points in a losing effort. While Colorado sits at 2-0 on the year, it only has a +11 point differential and hasn’t been able to pull away from lesser Big Sky competition.
Up next are the 2-1 Providence Friars, led by a former assistant of Boyle, Kim English. The Friars have scored over 85 points in regulation in every game this season, showing an impressive scoring output. Providence is led by two star guards, Jason Edwards and Jaylin Sellers, who both average over 16 points per game.
Friday’s contest presents by far the best opponent Colorado has faced this season, with Providence ranking No. 69 in KenPom’s national ranking. Stay tuned here for live updates from the Buffaloes’ third matchup of the season.
Despite an impressive defensive performance through the first 10 minutes, Colorado let Providence back in the game with a sloppy end of the first half. The Buffs continue to dominate on the glass, 24-15, but the Friars’ Jason Edwards’ ability to get to the line has helped them close the game. Both teams committed 10 fouls in the first half, which left their stars, like Sebastian Rancik and Jaylin Sellers, off the court.
Hargress’ aggressive playstyle on the offensive end is paying off for the Buffs. His 11 points and two rebounds have been a significant factor in keeping them in front, despite several offensive fouls. Providence’s Stefan Vaaks’ 9 points has ignited a spark for the struggling offense. Both teams have struggled with foul trouble, and the Friars have had to go deep in their bench early.
Colorado has maintained their lead and is outrebounding Providence 15-9 through a surprisingly low-scoring first half. The Buffs’ offensive pressure on the glass has been successful, with only three 3-pointers attempted so far. Barrington Hargress is the Buffs’ top scorer with five points so far. The Friars’ 3-point struggles continue and have limited their offensive input.
Both teams went on two-and-a-half-minute-long scoring droughts, featuring some ugly misses and offensive fouls on the Buffs. Colorado entered the bonus with 11 minutes left as the Friars’ star point guard, Jaylin Sellars, is in foul trouble early.
The scoring has amped up in this game, but the Buffs continue to lead thanks to their ability to get to the rim. Jalin Holland and Alon Michaeli have stepped up as the starters get a rest, contributing 4 points each.
Colorado’s offense continues where it left off against Eastern Washington, with great success attacking the rim with Bangot Dak. Providence’s perimeter shooting struggles continue as the Buffs’ defense delivered great contests. The Friars are just 1-6 from beyond the arc, while the Buffs are 1-2.
Both teams have struggled to find offense, shooting a combined 2-9 through three minutes of play. Providence has come out looking to shoot from beyond the arc, but has missed all three attempts.
Providence won the opening tip, but missed a 3-pointer by star point guard Jaylin Sellers. A missed jumper by Bangot Dak keeps this game scoreless after two possessions.
Starters: G Barrington Hargress, G Felix Kossaras, F Sebastian Rancik, F Bangot Dak, C Elijah Malone.
No changes in the starting lineup for the Buffs from their first two games.
Colorado basketball vs. Providence: TV channel, tip time
Date: Friday, Nov. 14
TV Channel: ESPN+
Start time: 7 p.m. MT
The Buffaloes and the Friars will tip off at 7 p.m. MT on ESPN+. The game will also be available to stream on the ESPN app.
Watch Colorado basketball vs. Providence on ESPN+
Colorado basketball vs. Providence betting spread, over/under
Odds courtesy of BetMGM as of Friday, Nov. 14.
- Point Spread: Colorado by 1 1/2
- Money Line: Colorado -120, Providence +100
- Over/under: 77 1/2
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