Providence Friars Fall to Oklahoma Sooners 79-77 in Thrilling Battle 4 Atlantis Match

The Providence College men’s basketball team suffered a narrow 79-77 defeat at the hands of the Oklahoma Sooners in the opening contest of the Battle 4 Atlantis tournament on Wednesday, November 27, in Paradise Island, Bahamas.

The game was marked by intense back-and-forth action, with the Friars leading 34-32 at halftime. Wesley Cardet Jr. led the Friars with 11 points in the first half, while Kobe Elvis of the Sooners scored 12 points and Jeremiah Fears added seven.

In the second half, Oklahoma took the lead for good midway through, thanks to consecutive 3-pointers by Luke Northweather. Despite a late rally by the Friars, which included a technical foul called on Oklahoma for having too many players on the court, Providence was unable to overcome the deficit. Jayden Pierre’s 35-foot shot at the buzzer came up short, securing the win for the Sooners.

Kobe Elvis was instrumental for Oklahoma, scoring 26 points, while Jeremiah Fears contributed 20 points, seven assists, and four steals. For the Friars, Wesley Cardet Jr. scored 17 points, Jayden Pierre and Bensley Joseph each scored 16, and Corey Floyd Jr. added 13 points.

The Friars outrebounded the Sooners 38-25 but were hindered by 23 points surrendered off 16 turnovers and Oklahoma’s 51% shooting from the field. Providence will continue their tournament play on Thursday, November 28, against the loser of the Davidson vs. No. 24 Arizona game.