Dunn's 'best' aids Friars in NIT win

Providence - The rebuilding Providence men's basketball program took another step forward with their latest win.

Vincent Council, the only senior on the roster, scored eight straight points to key a second-half charge that led the Friars to a 75-66 victory over Charlotte on Wednesday night in the opening round of the National Invitation Tournament.

New London's Kris Dunn, playing his best college game, according to coach Ed Cooley, had 14 points, nine rebounds six assists and four steals.

"This is a great moment for us, great moment as our team is building, our program is building," Cooley said after his Friars overcame a seven-point second-half deficit.

Providence (18-14) got its first postseason win since an NIT victory in 2003 and will host Robert Morris, which upset defending national champion Kentucky, either Sunday or Monday.

"We look forward to a great challenge, obviously our next opponent has played really well, beating a monster like Kentucky at home, but there's nothing like playing in this beautiful state. Great things are going to happen here. It's just a matter of time," Cooley said.

Council, who finished with 16 points, six assists, five rebounds, two steals and two blocks, had help from his fellow guards, including Dunn. Bryce Cotton added 25 points.