Providence played Rhode Island in 1920, but was it just an exhibition?

PROVIDENCE — I’m siding with Providence men’s basketball . I don’t think Rhode Island deserves a win against the Friars.

But not so fast Providence fans, I’m also riding with the Rams.

Neither of my conclusions, though, have to do with the Saturday, Dec. 6, matchup downtown. (Tip-off is at noon.) This starts at the beginning, and I mean the actual inauguration of the state’s premier basketball rivalry.