BYU vs. Providence Preview: Cougars Aim for a Key December Victory in Big East-Big 12 Clash
The Cougars are set to journey across the country to one of college basketball’s premier venues.
BYU basketball returns to action Tuesday night, facing Providence in the Big East-Big 12 Battle. This marks BYU’s third consecutive game against “power six” opponents and their final major test before conference play starts on December 31st.
The Cougars recently delivered a respectable 1-1 performance in the Rady Children’s Invitational, narrowly losing to No. 23 Ole Miss in overtime before defeating NC State 72-61.
Meanwhile, Providence is struggling after three consecutive losses in the Battle 4 Atlantis. They competed well against undefeated Oklahoma but subsequently fell to Davidson and were routed by Indiana. It was a tough stretch, but with high expectations in Rhode Island, Providence will aim to rebound and claim a win for the Big East.
The return of Dallin Hall has been vital for BYU as they gear up for conference play. While Hall hasn’t posted big scoring numbers, the junior guard’s steady ball handling has kept the offense effective even when Egor Demin is on the bench.
Hall has averaged four assists in his first three games back, minimizing turnovers and staying active on the offensive glass. His scoring consistency could be crucial, as he was scoreless against Ole Miss but hit five 3-pointers over the other two games.
Hall’s impact depends partly on his teammates’ shooting. Dawson Baker and Trevin Knell need to contribute off the bench, while Kanon Catchings and Richie Saunders are the primary three-point shooters among the starters. BYU ranks eighth nationally in three-point attempts, suggesting another “live by the three, die by the three” season in Provo.
The Cougars face a challenge against Providence’s defense, which allows the 19th fewest opponent three-point attempts nationally at 17.9 per game. This contrasts with BYU’s nearly 32 three-point attempts per game. Providence relies on size, though none of their regulars are taller than 6’6″. Their taller players, Erhunmwunse and Essandoko, contribute less than one block per game each.
Providence’s frontcourt struggles defensively, ranking 254th in opponent points from two-pointers (51.9%) and 214th in blocks per game (2.9). BYU’s Keba Keita and Fousseyni Traore could dominate near the rim, while Demin, Hall, and Baker should focus on creating scoring opportunities.
Offensively, Providence has been without star Bryce Hopkins for nearly a year, though he warmed up during their recent games in the Bahamas. A former First Team All-Big East player, Hopkins could be a game-changer if he returns Tuesday. Known for his athletic scoring and rebounding, his presence would significantly alter the matchup.
If Hopkins remains out, junior guard Jayden Pierre will continue as a key offensive contributor for Providence. A versatile scorer, Pierre is adept at hitting threes and finishing at the rim. Dallin Hall will likely be tasked with guarding Pierre, offering insights into Hall’s defensive abilities.
Providence’s offense mirrors its defensive tendencies. They don’t score much inside but protect the ball and chase long rebounds from missed threes. Containing Pierre’s shooting could disrupt the Friars’ entire offense.
Tuesday’s game will also be BYU’s first true road test of the season. Providence’s Amica Mutual Pavilion is renowned for its intensity, ranked among the best home court environments in college basketball by coaches in a CBS Sports poll, placing it alongside BYU and Iowa State.
While BYU has the potential for a dominant win, this game is unlikely to be easy. The Cougars’ resilience will be tested, but if they handle the hostile atmosphere, they could secure a valuable non-conference victory and Big 12 bragging rights.