PROVIDENCE, R.I., March 6 (UPI) -- Providence dug itself far too big a hole as Boston College raced to a 20-point first-half lead and held on for 63-54 victory Saturday.
Eagles freshman Jared Dudley had 15 points and eight rebounds to spark Boston College's win over No. 13 Providence in a Big East Conference contest.
Craig Smith added 12 points and eight rebounds for the Eagles (21-8, 10-6), who extended their winning streak to five games and boosted their case for an NCAA Tournament berth.
Boston College took control early, building a 29-9 lead on a basket by freshman Steve Hailey with 5:36 left.
The Friars fought back, using an 11-1 run in the second half to cut the lead to 40-34 on a layup by Sheiku Kabba with 9:40 left, but could get no closer.
Ryan Gomes scored 13 points for host Providence (20-7, 11-5), which was unable to bounce back from an 88-61 loss to Pittsburgh on Tuesday. The defeat will force the Friars to settle for third in the upcoming Big East tournament.
