Providence Stuns Butler in BIG EAST Tournament

Providence Stuns Butler in BIG EAST Tournament, Advances to Quarterfinals Providence pulled off a remarkable comeback, defeating Butler 91-81 in the first round of the 2026 BIG EAST Tournament at Madison Square Garden. The ninth-seeded Friars secured their spot in Thursdays quarterfinals against top-seeded St. Johns. Butler, who finished the season 16-16, couldnt hold on to their early lead. Butler started strong, leading 25-9 in the first half, but Providence fought back, tying the game at 38-38 before halftime. The Friars then took control with a 12-0 run in the second half, their first lead since the opening tip. Stefan Vaaks led Providence with 28 points, making 8 of 13 three-pointers. Ryan Mela and Jaylin Sellers added 23 points each. For Butler, Michael Ajayi had 21 points and 11 rebounds, setting the schools single-season rebounding record. Providence shot 52% from three-point range and 60% from the field after halftime. Butler shot 46% overall but struggled from beyond the arc, making only 5 of 17. The teams had split their two regular-season meetings, both going to double overtime, with the home team winning. Providence heads into the next round with momentum from their impressive shooting performance. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/32fe397972ab7ca0