Big East basketball tournament 2014 schedule and bracket: Seton Hall looks to continue run in semifinals

The Big East Tournament rolls on Friday in Madison Square Garden, featuring two semifinal games. There are at least two teams on the bubble seeking to pad their resume, or maybe even win the tournament outright and automatically qualify for the NCAA Tournament. In their way is Doug McDermott who continues to pile up the points in his impressive Creighton career.

In the first semifinal, two bubble teams square off. No. 8 Seton Hall -- fresh off their huge upset of Villanova -- will face No. 4 Providence. The Friars took out St. John's to advance, reaching the semis of the Big East Tournament for the first time since 1997. Providence rode a huge game from Josh Fortune, who hit four three-pointers on his way to 24 points. The Seton Hall Pirates needed Sterling Gibbs' step-back jumper at the buzzer to knock off top-seeded Villanova, paving the way for a miracle run to the Big Dance if they can win two more games. The Pirates split their season series with Providence, knocking off the Friars in overtime to open Big East play.

Later, Doug McDermott will continue his masterful victory lap of the NCAA field. The senior scored 27 in the first half against DePaul in the quarterfinals, finishing the game with 35 as the Bluejays blew out the Blue Demons. Trying to stop McDermott will be Xavier, who edged out Marquette in the quarters. Semaj Christon had 18 points and five assists in the win, including three late free throws that helped keep the distance between the Musketeers and Eagles. Xavier split games against Creighton this season, with each team winning on their home floor.