Providence Friars 60 (3-0)

Hampton Pirates 51 (1-2)

In their first-ever matchup against the visiting Hampton Pirates, led by former longtime Ed Cooley assistant Ivan Thomas, the Friars didn’t exactly start like a team desperate for a win. The first half was plagued by turnovers, empty possessions, and a lackluster effort. Frustrated, head coach Kim English turned to what he called “the toughest six guys on the team.” While Providence eventually found its rhythm and secured the win to remain undefeated, it was far from a polished performance.

Jayden Pierre and Joseph Bensley both dropped 13 points, leading Providence to a 60-51 win over Hampton on Tuesday night. Pierre also grabbed six boards for the Friars, who are now 3-0. Bensley went 3-for-13 from the field (3-for-11 from deep) and hit 4-of-5 at the line while dishing out five assists. Wesley Cardet Jr. chipped in 10 points, shooting 4-for-10 overall and 2-for-5 from three.

Game Notes:

• Jayden Pierre, seemingly off his minutes restriction by playing 32 minutes, was the steady force of the Providence Friars throughout the entirety of the game.
• Not only did Pierre finally break out from a statistical standpoint but he looked quicker and more confident in attacking his defenders. Pierre was 5-for-8 from the floor including 3-of-5 from distance. He added a team-high 6 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, 1 block, and didn’t commit a turnover. It appears as though he is firmly taking that next step into a leadership role that this Providence team seems to be searching for outside of Bensley Joseph so far this season.
• Ryan Mela and Eli DeLaurier provided a punch off the bench, earning themselves additional minutes through effort and team-oriented play. Their numbers on paper may not jump off the page but if you were watching the game, they were integral to the Friars coming back and securing the victory. Their play should translate into additional minutes in the future.
• On the other end Christ Essandoko’s turnover problems persisted with 4 turnovers in just 9 minutes on the floor and Jabri Adbur-Rahim, despite getting his first start of the year, did not play a minute in the second half (same with Christ) when Kim English went with his toughest players on the court.
• Both Corey Floyd Jr. and Rich Barron look to have broken out somewhat from their respective shooting struggles going 3-for-4 and 2-for-3 respectively
• The Friars continue to struggle with both turning the ball over (14) and hitting free throws (10-of-20), which has led to these close games against lesser competition. Things could finally come to a head if they’re not careful in the near future.
• Post Game Press Conference…

Next Up, the Friars continue their home stand against Green Bay on Saturday at 5 PM on FS2.