In a crucial Big East matchup, the Providence Friars (18-10 SU, 9-8 BEast) are set to host the Villanova Wildcats (16-12 SU, 9-8 BEast) on Saturday at 12pmET at the Amaica Mutual Pavilion in Rhode Island. This game holds significant implications for both teams as they jockey for position in the hunt for the NCAA Tournament.

The Wildcats come into this matchup with a sense of urgency, having won four of their last five games. However, their margin for error remains slim with just 16 wins on the season. Currently sitting as the First Four out according to Joe Lunardi's latest Bracketology report, Villanova needs to continue their winning ways to secure their tournament hopes.

Villanova's recent victories include a commanding 75-47 win over Georgetown on February 27. Despite their relatively strong metrics, with a NCAA Net Ranking of 32 compared to Providence's 56, the Wildcats will be looking to prove themselves in this critical matchup. The team does face some injury concerns, with Jordan Longino (6.6ppg) and T.J. Bamba (10.5ppg, 3.6rpg) listed as questionable for the game. Longino is battling an illness while Bamba has an upper-body injury to contend with.

Leading the Wildcats in scoring is Eric Dixon, who averages 16.3 points per game and shoots an impressive 47.2% from the field. T.J. Bamba provides additional offensive firepower, but has struggled with his shooting percentages throughout the season. Villanova prides itself on its strong defensive game, holding opponents to just 65.6 points per game on 41% shooting and 32.2% from beyond the arc. Offensively, their performance has been average at best, averaging 71.8 points per game on 42.6% shooting and 33.5% from three-point range. Notably, they lead the nation in free throw shooting at an impressive 81.6%.

Meanwhile, Providence has been playing well as of late, having won three straight games prior to their 91-69 loss against Marquette. Led by standout guard Devin Carter, who is averaging 19.3 points, 3.6 assists, and 8.2 rebounds per game, the Friars have shown their ability to compete against tough opponents. Josh Oduro has also been a reliable contributor, averaging 16.3 points and 7.0 rebounds on an efficient 56.2% shooting.

Under coach Kim Engish, Providence has demonstrated resilience and strong defensive play at home, where they limit opponents to just 39.9% shooting from the field. Offensively, the Friars are averaging 73.8 points per game on 45.2% shooting. Although they suffered a disappointing loss to Marquette, shooting 41% from the field, Providence has solid wins against Creighton, Xavier, and Seton Hall on the road, along with a victory over Wisconsin in non-conference play.

Given Villanova's injury concerns and Providence's desire for revenge after their lackluster performance in their previous meeting, this game is expected to be a hard-fought battle. Villanova's struggles on the road, shooting just 40.9% from the field, may play into the Friars' advantage as they look to cement their NCAA Tournament hopes.

Tip-off is set for 12pmET at the Amaica Mutual Pavilion, and fans can expect an intense showdown between these two Big East rivals.