Butler Bulldogs vs Providence Friar Picks and Predictions February 8th 2025

Short-Handed Providence Seeking Sweep of Butler

The Providence Friars will have to rely on their “next-man-up” mentality once again when they visit the Butler Bulldogs for a Big East clash on Saturday in Indianapolis.

Can Providence Overcome Injuries Again?

Providence (11-12, 5-7 Big East) has been battling injuries all season, and their latest setback is the loss of fifth-year guard Jabri Abdur-Rahim, who is out for the season with a torn meniscus. He joins Bryce Hopkins (knee) on the sidelines, while Wesley Cardet Jr. (thigh) also missed the Friars’ 80-69 loss to Creighton on Wednesday.

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Despite the adversity, Corey Floyd Jr. (16 points) and Jayden Pierre (14 points) stepped up against Creighton, though Providence ultimately didn’t have enough firepower to keep up.

“It’s been the story of our season,” Friars coach Kim English said. “Preseason, in season, late season—injuries have been a theme. But I’m a basketball coach. I coach the players that we have.”

Providence won the first meeting against Butler 84-65 on Jan. 8, with Pierre and Bensley Joseph scoring 18 points apiece. Cardet added 17, while Ryan Mela posted 10 points and 15 rebounds.

Can Butler Build Off a Dominant Performance?

Butler (10-13, 3-9 Big East) had been struggling, losing three of four before bouncing back with an 84-54 rout of Seton Hall on Wednesday. The Bulldogs shot 57.9% from the field and 50% from beyond the arc in the victory.

Pierre Brooks II led the way with 14 points, while Patrick McCaffery and Boden Kapke each added 13.

“You’ve got to score to win, and I’ve always said this: ‘If guys get hot, it does become contagious,’” Bulldogs coach Thad Matta said. “I thought the hot shooting helped our defense. … Down the stretch, we’re going to have to shoot the ball well. Even when we’re not, we’re going to have to play great defense.”

In last month’s loss to the Friars, Butler was led by Jahmyl Telfort and Brooks, who scored 17 points each.

Can Providence Overcome Its Injuries,

or Will Butler Stay Hot?

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Will Providence Complete the Season Sweep?

With Providence shorthanded and Butler coming off its best performance in weeks, this game could go either way. Will the Friars overcome their injuries once again, or will Butler build on its momentum and defend its home court?