SOUTH KINGSTOWN — Friday will mark the ninth sellout of the Ryan Center on as many occasions for the men’s basketball matchup between the University of Rhode Island and Providence College.
It would be folly to suggest there isn’t something special about this game. Attempting to dial back the rivalry between the two programs comes across as a bit tone deaf. It’s more managing expectations and looking ahead on the schedule than trading in real emotion.
The Friars have been on the hunt for bigger game since the formation of the Big East. They broke away from the state schools in the region four decades ago and enjoyed the rise that came with cable television and increased visibility.