Providence Fiar vs Creighton Bluejays Picks and Predictions February 5th 2025

Creighton Eyes 8th Straight Win, Aims to Sweep Providence

Creighton looks to extend its winning streak to eight games and complete a regular-season sweep of Providence when the two teams face off Wednesday night in Rhode Island. The Bluejays (16-6, 9-2 Big East) continue to build momentum, while the Friars (11-11, 5-6) hope to bounce back from a close loss.

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Creighton’s Winning Formula: Experience, Clutch Plays & Resilience

The No. 17-ranked Bluejays edged out Villanova 62-60 in their last game, thanks to a clutch three-pointer from Steven Ashworth with just 5.8 seconds left. Despite committing 18 turnovers and shooting just 23% from beyond the arc (6-of-26), Creighton found a way to win.

Much of that success came from Ryan Kalkbrenner, who scored 22 points and grabbed eight rebounds. His performance extended a streak of three straight games with at least 20 points, proving his dominance in the paint.

“Sometimes you need good fortune,” Creighton coach Greg McDermott admitted. “Sometimes you have to be lucky.”

However, Creighton’s experience and leadership have played a significant role in their late-game execution. Against Villanova, the Bluejays’ seniors scored the team’s final 19 points, stepping up in the clutch moments.

The last time Creighton faced Providence, they delivered an 84-64 blowout win at home on Jan. 14. Kalkbrenner posted a 20-point, 10-rebound double-double, while Ashworth also added 20 points, showcasing their ability to dominate this matchup.

One key factor to watch? Ashworth’s three-point shooting streak. He has now hit at least one three-pointer in 40 straight games, the second-longest streak in Creighton history.

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Providence’s Struggles: Turnovers & Close Losses

The Friars are coming off a heartbreaking 68-66 loss to St. John’s, where they erased a 19-point deficit but ultimately fell short. While their resilience was impressive, their turnover issues continue to be a major concern.

Providence turned the ball over 20 times in the loss—marking the third time this season they’ve hit that number. Coach Kim English knows that if his team wants to compete, they must clean up their mistakes.

“Didn’t deserve to win, but I thought our guys fought hard and showed some great resolve,” English said. “If we take care of the ball, we like our chances.”

On the bright side, Jabri Abdur-Rahim delivered a career-best performance, scoring 27 points and hitting 8-of-11 from three-point range. His eight made threes marked the first time a Providence player has reached that number since 2005.

Providence will need more consistent scoring from Jayden Pierre and Bensley Joseph, who were held to just 11 and 3 points against St. John’s. If they can step up alongside Abdur-Rahim, the Friars could turn this into a competitive battle.

Head-to-Head History & Key Matchup Storylines

Creighton holds a 15-12 all-time edge over Providence in Big East meetings, but there’s a key trend to note:

• Providence has won the last two matchups at home in overtime.

That home-court advantage could play a role, especially if Providence can limit turnovers and force Creighton into a slower-paced game.

Meanwhile, Creighton will look to replicate their dominance from the last matchup, where they controlled the game from start to finish.

Expert Betting Guide

Keys to Victory

✅ Creighton Wins If…

• Ryan Kalkbrenner continues his dominance in the paint.
• Steven Ashworth stays hot from three-point range.
• They limit turnovers and maintain efficiency despite pressure.

❌ Providence Wins If…

• Jabri Abdur-Rahim gets hot from deep again.
• They take care of the basketball (under 12 turnovers).
• They force Creighton into a physical, defensive battle.

Final Thoughts: Can Creighton Keep Rolling?

Creighton enters this matchup as the clear favorite, riding a seven-game winning streak and led by experienced seniors who thrive in high-pressure moments. However, Providence has proven to be dangerous at home, especially in close contests.

If the Friars can protect the ball and get another big performance from Abdur-Rahim, they could turn this into a fight. Otherwise, expect Kalkbrenner and Ashworth to lead Creighton to another statement win.

Game Details:

📅 Date: Wednesday, February 7, 2024
📍 Location: Amica Mutual Pavilion, Providence, RI
📺 TV: FS1