JUST IN: With an 80-73 victory over, Paige Bueckers helps UConn return to the Final Four.

Boston College narrowly defeated Providence College 62-57 in the opening round of the NIT. Despite facing a depleted Providence team, the Eagles had a tough challenge throughout the game. True freshman Elijah Strong made crucial plays late in the game, contributing 10 points, while Claudell Harris Jr. scored 17 points, including a pivotal three-pointer with just 52 seconds left, securing the victory.

The game was characterized by a constant back-and-forth struggle, with both teams struggling to find offensive rhythm early on. Providence, missing key player Devin Carter and playing with a limited roster of seven scholarship players, managed to stay competitive. Boston College faced foul trouble early, forcing Quinten Post to sit out most of the first half with three fouls. However, they capitalized on Providence’s late-half cold streak to take a narrow 31-30 lead.

The second half continued the intense battle, with neither team able to establish a significant lead. Whenever BC seemed poised to pull ahead, key shots from Providence players like Jayden Pierre and Josh Oduro kept the game close. Elijah Strong’s timely three-pointer helped BC regain the lead after Providence briefly took a 50-48 lead. Claudell Harris’ clutch three-pointer followed by a decisive play by Devin McGlockton secured the win for Boston College.

The victory marked significant milestones for Boston College, including their first 20-win season since 2010-2011 and their first postseason win in over a decade. They now await the winner of the UNLV vs. Princeton matchup in the next round of the NIT.