
Butler

Providence
Highlights
Preview
Preview: Butler at Providence Womenâs Basketball PROVIDENCE, R.I. (Interstat) â Two Big East womenâs basketball teams seeking momentum will meet Wednesday when the Butler Bulldogs visit the Providence Friars at Dunkinâ Center. Butler (9-15, 3-10 Big East) arrives on a four-game losing streak, most recently falling 80-48 at Connecticut last Saturday. Providence (11-14, 5-8) snapped a three-game skid with a 66-50 home victory over Xavier on Sunday. The matchup is a quick rematch from Jan. 14, when the host Bulldogs defeated the Friars 62-52. Butlerâs Saniya Jackson scored 13 points in that contest, while Providenceâs Sabou Gueye led all scorers with 22. Jackson, a key player for Butler, is averaging 11.4 points and 6.4 rebounds over her last seven games. She is coming off a 12-rebound performance at UConn. Gueye has been a standout for Providence, averaging 19.7 points in that same seven-game span. She exploded for 29 points and nine rebounds in the win over Xavier, showcasing her ability to carry the Friarsâ offense. Both teams have struggled for consistency in conference play. Butlerâs defense, which held Providence to 52 points in the first meeting, will be tested by Gueyeâs recent form. The Bulldogs will need more offensive production after being held under 60 points in three of their last four losses. Providence will look to protect its home court and avenge Januaryâs loss. Beyond Gueye, contributions from players like Orlagh Gormley, who had 10 points and six rebounds Sunday, will be crucial. The game tips off at 7 p.m. EST Wednesday as both teams jockey for position ahead of the Big East tournament next month.