PROVIDENCE — Here comes Rhody.

After taking care of one state rival in easy fashion last night, now it’s time for the Friars to lock horns with the Rams this Saturday at the Dunkin’ Donuts Center. This will be Keno Davis’ first taste of the PC-URI series and while he’s anticipating a heated atmosphere at The Dunk, he doesn’t quite understand why some URI fans often view the game as the biggest of the season.

“I think URI knows that their biggest game isn’t against Providence College. Unless they tell you it is,”’ said Davis. “I would think that their biggest game would be the one to try to win their conference or to open up their conference season or in their conference tournament. This one gets the most publicity early in the year and it’s great that it prepares you for conference and post-season play but it’s not the most important game.”

The players certainly have the game circled on their calendars. “It’s going to be a good one,” said Marshon Brooks. “We lost last year but I didn’t get to play. They’re good, especially when Jimmy Baron is on, but they’re just another team that we want to beat.”

Incidentally, there will be steps to calm the mascot/cheerleader wars that have flared over the years in the series. Two years ago, the URI cheerleaders were openly booed by some fans and the Rhody mascot had his uniform damaged in an off-the-court incident.

PC chose not to bring its cheerleaders or mascot to the Ryan Center last season and PC privately hoped URI would do the same this season. But PC has received word that Rhody plans to have its entourage at The Dunk.

Tickets are still available to the game by calling 865-GOPC.

Xavier in; McKenzie out

Jeff Xavier replaced Brian McKenzie in the Friars’ starting lineup. McKenzie has struggled with his shot all season despite looking as good as anyone in many preseason practice sessions.

Both Xavier and McKenzie struggled with their shooting last night. Xavier made 1-of-9 shots and finished with three points. McKenzie was 1-for-3 with two points. PC’s top eight players all saw between 22 and 25 minutes last night and Davis said he “has eight starters. You could see any of our top eight start.”

Bears’ Williams impressive

The Bears struggled at both ends of the floor but coach Jesse Agel is impressed with the improved play of sophomore guard Adrian Williams. The Atlanta native has become one of the team’s top outside shooters in his second collegiate season. His four 3-pointers were one of the clearest highlights for the Bears, especially for a player who’s been bothered by a sore foot.

kmcnamar@projo.com