No.10 Florida’s Frontcourt Excels in Win Over Providence

Xaivian Leescored 17 of his game-high 20 points in the second half,Thomas HaughandRueben Chinyelueach had double-doubles, and No.10FloridabeatProvidence90-78 on Friday in the third-place game at the Rady Children’s Invitational.

Haugh had 16 points and 12 rebounds, and Chinyelu had 13 points and 10 rebounds for his fourth double-double in five games.

Florida’s frontcourt has 11 double-doubles this season.It would be 12 had Chinyelu not fallen one rebound short in an 84-80 loss toTCUin the tournament opener on Thursday.

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Urban Klavzarscored 18 points andBoogie Flandadded 17 for the defending national champion Gators (5-2), who smoothly rebounded from the loss to the Horned Frogs.

Ryan Melascored 17 points to lead five players in double figures for the Friars (4-4), who were routed 104-83 by Wisconsin on Thursday.Jaylin Sellershad 14,Jason Edwards13, Corey Floyd Jr.12 andStefan Vaaks10.

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Lee made 3-pointers on consecutive possessions early in the second half to push the Gators’ 45-39 halftime lead to 51-40.He continued his hot streak with a jumper and a putback sandwiched around consecutive 3-pointers by Fland to give Florida a 61-47 lead.

Providence closed within 65-57 before the Gators went on a 10-0 run highlighted by Lee’s floater, Klavzar’s 3-pointer and Haugh’s three-point play.

Chinyelu scored four points during one possession in the first half.He made the first of two free throws with 6:58 left before halftime and missed the second, with Haugh getting the rebound.Chinyelu made a hook shot, was fouled and converted the three-point play for a 30-21 lead.

Up next

Providence hostsFairleigh Dickinsonon Tuesday night.

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Florida visits Cameron Indoor Stadium to take on No.4Dukeon Tuesday night.

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Reporting by The Associated Press.

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