PROVIDENCE — The Providence College Friars’ chances of making a mark in the National Invitation Tournament improved before the event even tipped off.
When the Friars host Arkansas in an NIT first-round game on Tuesday at 9 p.m., the Razorbacks will be without leading scorer and rebounder Daniel Gafford. The 6-foot-11 sophomore announced on Monday that he’s turning pro and didn’t plan to accompany his team to Rhode Island.
The All-Southeastern Conference big man averaged 16.9 points and 8.7 rebounds and shot 66 percent from the field. He’s expected to be a first-round NBA selection.
“He could’ve left last year, he had the opportunity,” said coach Mike Anderson.