COL BKB: Syracuse 81, Providence 74

SYRACUSE, N.Y., Dec. 28 (UPI) -- Kris Joseph scored a career-high 27 points to lead 5th-ranked Syracuse past Providence 81-74 in the Big East opener for both teams.

Joseph was 8-of-13 from the field and logged 40 minutes on the floor. Scoop Jardine added 21 points for Syracuse (14-0, 1-0 Big East) and Rick Jackson had 17 rebounds to go with his nine points.

Marshon Brooks led Providence (11-3, 0-1 Big East) with 27 points and six rebounds. Bilal Dixon added 11 points and nine rebounds.

The Friars, who had won seven of their last eight games heading into Tuesday's contest, shot 39.7 percent from the field but still outscored the Orange 42-39 in the second half after trailing by 10 at halftime.