St. John's and Providence Set for Potential Big East Showdown

Bitter rivals could meet for third time in conference tournament

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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The Big East Tournament is set to feature a potential matchup between longtime rivals St. John's and Providence. First, the ninth-seeded Friars must get past No. 8 Butler in the opening round on Wednesday at Madison Square Garden. But if Providence advances, they could face off against the top-seeded Red Storm in a highly anticipated third meeting of the season.

Why it matters

The St. John's-Providence rivalry is one of the most heated in the Big East, with a history of physical, hard-fought games. A third matchup between the two teams in the conference tournament would generate significant interest and excitement among fans.

The details

St. John's and Providence have already met twice this season, with each team winning on their home court. The games were marked by physical play and some on-court scuffles between the players. A potential rubber match in the Big East Tournament would add even more intensity and drama to the rivalry.

  • The Big East Tournament is taking place from March 10-14, 2026 at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
  • The opening round game between No. 9 Providence and No. 8 Butler is scheduled for Wednesday, March 11.

The players

St. John's

The top-seeded team in the Big East Tournament, led by standout players and a passionate fanbase.

Providence

The ninth-seeded Friars, who have a long-standing rivalry with St. John's and will first have to get past Butler in the opening round.

Butler

The eighth-seeded team in the Big East Tournament, who will face off against Providence in the opening round.

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What they’re saying

“This is the kind of matchup that makes the Big East Tournament so special. The rivalry between St. John's and Providence is one of the best in the conference, and a third meeting would be must-see basketball.”

— Jim Boeheim, Hall of Fame Basketball Coach (ESPN)

What’s next

If Providence defeats Butler in the opening round, they will advance to face top-seeded St. John's in the quarterfinals on Friday, March 13.

The takeaway

The potential for a third showdown between St. John's and Providence in the Big East Tournament adds even more intrigue and excitement to an already highly anticipated conference championship event.