Xavier's J.P. Macura Leads Xavier Against Cincinnati Saturday on FS1
MBB Minute -- Creighton Loses at Gonzaga; Stacked Saturday Schedule On Tap
In the lone game on Friday involving a BIG EAST team, No. 25 Creighton lost 91-74 at No. 15 Gonzaga. The Bluejays shot 58.1 percent in the first half while building a 44-37 lead, but could not stop the Bulldogs in the second half, being outshot 62.1 percent to 37.9 percent. Marcus Foster led the Bluejays with 21 points.
Saturday’s loaded schedule shows seven games, including three intense local rivalries.
The day begins with No. 21 Xavier hosting No. 11 Cincinnati in the Crosstown Shootout at noon on FS1. The Musketeers have won the last six home meetings against the Bearcats.
Providence plays at Rhode Island on CBS Sports Network at 5 p.m. The Friars have taken the last seven meetings, but have won the last two games against the Rams by a total of five points.
After a Wednesday win against Pennsylvania, Villanova continues its Philadelphia Big 5 play with a game at Saint Joseph’s at 5:30 p.m. on ESPN2. The Wildcats have won 19 straight in the city series and beat the Hawks last year 88-57.
Three other games start at 2 p.m. Butler hosts Saint Louis on FS1. The Bulldogs have won 38 in a row at Hinkle Fieldhouse against non-conference opponents. Marquette hosts Georgia on CBS Sports Network. Marquette won 89-79 at Georgia last year. DePaul hosts Youngstown State at Wintrust Arena. Transfer Max Strus leads all BIG EAST newcomers with a 14.8 scoring average.
At 4:30 p.m., FS1 televises St. John’s and Sacred Heart meeting at Carnesecca Arena. The Red Storm (6-1) lead the league in scoring defense, allowing only 60.7 ppg.
BIG EAST teams are a combined 53-14 (.791) this season going into Saturday.