St. John’s could square off against bitter, brawling rival in Big East Tournament

You knew this was possible, a third meeting between St. John’s and Providence.

First, the ninth-seeded Friars have to get past No. 8 Butler on Wednesday in the Big East Tournament at the Garden.

But it sure would be fascinating if No. 1 St. John’s and Providence meet again following their fight back on Feb. 14 that led to a three-game suspension for Friar Duncan Powell, who started the incident.

Providence handed St. John’s one of its two league losses at the Garden on Jan. 3.

The fact Bryce Hopkins left Providence for St. John’s has added major heat to this rivalry.