Xavier Musketeers vs
Providence FriarsPredictions & Preview

Xavier Favored to Win Against Struggling Providence in Closely Contested Basketball Matchup

In an upcoming basketball matchup, Xavier will face off against Providence on Wednesday night in the Ocean State. Xavier is coming off a recent loss to Villanova while Providence fell to Butler in their previous game. Despite Xavier being the betting favorite at -2, Providence has had success in their recent matchups against the Musketeers. This game is expected to be closely contested, and fans can look forward to an exciting matchup between these two competitive teams.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Musketeers -131 | Friars +109
• Spread: Musketeers -2 (-110) | Friars +2 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 147.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Xavier will win straight-up is 57%.

Xavier vs Providence Stats

Xavier Musketeers

Xavier experienced a loss on the road against Villanova, resulting in a 14-10 overall record and a 6-7 mark in the Big East. The game saw Xavier leading and trailing at various points before ultimately falling to a 78-62 defeat. Despite shooting 49.1% from the field and having strong individual performances, the Musketeers struggled defensively. Xavier's key players include Zach Freemantle, Ryan Conwell, and a number of other contributors who have helped the team's offensive efforts. Overall, Xavier ranks 109th in offense and 137th in defense, with notable statistics in field goal and three-point shooting percentages. Despite some defensive challenges, the Musketeers have shown strength at the free-throw line, converting 78% of their chances. With a power ranking of 192, Xavier faces both offensive and defensive challenges as they navigate the rest of the season.

Providence Friars Analysis

Providence dropped their fifth game in the last seven, falling to Butler on the road. Despite shooting 50% from the floor and 16 of 32 from beyond the arc, the Friars lost the rebounding battle and ultimately came up short. Bensley Joseph led the team with 26 points in the loss. Providence is currently 11-13 on the season and sits eighth in the Big East with a 5-8 conference record. The team averages 71.9 points per game while giving up 70.3 points defensively. Bryce Hopkins leads the team with 17 points and 7.7 rebounds per game, but is out for the season due to a knee injury. Wesley Cardet Jr. is questionable for the next game also due to a knee injury. Providence ranks 249th in the nation for offense and 142nd for defense, with a power ranking of 141. They shoot 44.1% from the field as a team and 36% from three-point range, while converting 70.4% of their free throws. On defense, they allow opponents to shoot 41.85% from the field and 31.06% from beyond the arc. Providence will look to bounce back in their next game against Xavier.

Xavier Favored to Win Against Struggling Providence without Injured Hopkins

In recent games, both teams have faced challenges, with Xavier experiencing a pattern of alternating wins and losses in their last six matches, while Providence has dropped five of their last seven games. The absence of Hopkins, who suffered a season-ending injury for the second consecutive year after playing just three games, has significantly impacted the Friars. Conversely, Xavier is in good health and benefits from strong leadership, particularly from Freemantle. Providence has struggled with scoring this season and may encounter difficulties in containing Xavier's efficient perimeter shooting and free throw abilities. Therefore, the Musketeers are favored to secure a road victory in this matchup.

Sources: [ 4 ] [ 5 ]