This year has unfolded as a significant disappointment for the Providence College men’s basketball program, raising questions about Coach Kim English’s ability to secure victories in crucial moments. Despite the optimism surrounding the team, bolstered by the acquisition of two top-tier recruits and an investment of approximately million to million in NIL funding, the Friars find themselves struggling with a 2-6 record in the Big East. The expectations were high for this season, particularly after a lackluster previous year that concluded with a 12-20 overall record and a 6-14 standing in the conference. The revamped roster was anticipated to contend for the Big East title and earn a bid to the NCAA tournament.
PC AD Sets High Bar
Following last season’s disappointing performance, Providence College Athletic Director Steven R. Napolillo reached out to season ticket holders and supporters in March 2025, vowing to turn the program around. He emphasized the school’s commitment to supporting its basketball programs at the highest level to compete for both Big East and national championships. This commitment was reflected in the preseason coaches’ poll, where the Friars were picked to finish fourth, a position that suggested a promising outlook for the season. The Big East noted that Providence featured ten newcomers and five returning players, including transfer guard Jason Edwards, who averaged 17.0 points per game at Vanderbilt and was named to the preseason All-Big East Second Team.
Losing in Final Minutes This Season
The Friars have faced a series of heartbreaking losses this season, often faltering in the final minutes of games:
- Virginia Tech: Leading late in the game, the Friars were tied at 86 with just seconds remaining, only to lose in overtime, 107-101.
- Butler: After a double-overtime battle, the Friars fell 113-110, missing key opportunities in the closing moments.
- Seton Hall: A late lead slipped away, resulting in a 72-67 defeat as the Friars failed to score in the final 75 seconds.
- UConn: A devastating loss after surrendering an 11-point lead at home, the Friars lost 103-98 in overtime.
- Marquette: The Friars led by four points with less than a minute left but ultimately fell in overtime, marking one of the season’s most painful losses.
While the Friars have managed to secure victories against Penn State and St. John’s, both fueled by last-minute heroics, their current record stands at 9-10 overall and 2-6 in the Big East. The season is not yet lost; with a favorable matchup against Georgetown on the horizon, there remains a glimmer of hope for the talented Friars to turn their fortunes around.
