DePaul Edges Providence in Thrilling College Basketball Showdown

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — In a tightly contested Big East matchup, the DePaul Blue Demons overcame the Providence Friars 80-77 on March 5, 2025, at the Amica Mutual Pavilion. DePaul’s CJ Gunn led the charge with 23 points, as the Blue Demons snapped a six-game losing streak while extending Providence’s struggles to four games.

The matchup was crucial for both teams amidst a challenging conference season. With this victory, DePaul improved to 12-18 overall and 3-16 in the Big East, while Providence fell to 12-17 and 6-12. Both teams are vying for positioning as the conference tournament approaches.

“We knew we had to come out strong and play together,” said Gunn, who displayed an impressive shooting performance, going 11-of-19 from the field, including 3-of-6 from beyond the arc. “This win means a lot to us, and we hope to carry this momentum forward.

The Blue Demons dominated early, finishing the first half with a significant lead of 52-39. DePaul’s offense was bolstered by a strong showing from forward David Jones, who added 21 points on 9-of-11 shooting, while pulling down four rebounds.

Providence, however, mounted a fierce comeback in the second half, outscoring DePaul 38-28 and tightening the score. The Friars found success with forward Noah Horchler, who netted 25 points and grabbed eight rebounds, while fellow forward Ed Croswell contributed 18 points.

Despite the late-game surge from Providence, which saw them cut the deficit to just three points in the final minute, DePaul held firm, converting critical free throws to seal their victory. DePaul’s strong performance on the glass, including seven rebounds from Gunn, stifled Providence’s attempts to gain second-chance opportunities.

The win was not only a relief for DePaul Coach Tony Stubblefield, who remarked on the importance of the victory, saying, “It shows resilience and heart. This is the type of basketball we can play when we are fully committed.”

The defeat leaves Providence searching for answers, as they hope to regroup before facing tougher competition. Coach Ed Cooley emphasized the need for improvement, stating, “We have to dig deep and find a way to win these close games.”

Both teams now look ahead as they prepare for upcoming matchups within the Big East schedule. DePaul’s next challenge will be against an equally tough opponent, while Providence hopes to end its losing streak at home.