Providence Falls to UConn in OT After Surrendering Late Double-Digit Lead

Providence Falls to UConn in OT After Surrendering Late Double-Digit Lead

The Providence College men’s basketball team held a late lead against the #4-ranked University of Connecticut men’s basketball team, but it evaporated in the final minutes, and the Friars lost 103-98.

With 3:12, the Friars led by 11 points on Wednesday night at home before a sold-out crowd.

The Huskies' comeback was fueled by outstanding 3-point shooting — a UConn record 18 for 32.

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The Friars had looked to grab their second top 25 win in the same week - they had beaten St. John’s this past Saturday.

 

First Half

The first half was the Corey Floyd, Jr. Show as he led all scorers with 12 points. Floyd was once a Husky.

The Friars led 47-37 at the half.

While UConn coach Danny Hurley was on a slow simmer, Kim English was in euphoria and constantly trying to get the Friar fans louder.

PC shot a scorching 59% from the field, and the Huskies just 42% in the first half.

 

Second Half

Hurley got a technical at halftime, and the Friars converted a free throw, scored a quick two-pointer, and held a 13-point lead — 50-37.

But, the Friars simply could not hold the lead.

The Friars led by 5 points with just 1:07 left in the game, but the Huskies 3-pointers were too much for PC.

The game was 89-89 at the end of regulation.

Overtime was about UConn — outscoring the Friars 14-9.

UConn freshman guard Brayton Mullins scored 24 points on 6-10 3-pointers. Alex Karaban and Silas Demary, Jr. each had 23 points for the Huskies.

The Friars were led by Ryan Mela, who had a career high with 19 points, including a behind-the-back left-handed layup in the second half, which brought the house down.

PC falls to 8-7 and 1-3 in the Big East. UConn improves to 15-1, 5-0.