Providence Friars

Head coach Ed Cooley looks to take the Friars back to the NCAA tournament and improve upon last year’s Sweet Sixteen appearance.
providence friars

Head coach Ed Cooley looks to take the Friars back to the NCAA tournament and improve upon last year’s Sweet Sixteen appearance. It was the sixth such trip in school history which came after a 24-4 regular season. Cooley and the Friars won the first Big East title in school history last  year and are off to another strong start at 16-5 overall and 8-2 in Big East play this season. 

Providence returns six players from last year’s roster, including All-Big East guard Jared Bynum (12.2 ppg). Four transfers have helped provide plenty of depth to the lineup.

Intriguing Facts About the Providence Friars

  • Historical Beginnings: The Providence Friars’ basketball program has roots stretching back to the early 20th century, with its humble beginnings in a local YMCA. This origin story speaks volumes about the team’s growth and evolution over the decades.
  • Mascot Evolution: The team’s mascot, a symbol of strength and resilience, has undergone several transformations, reflecting the evolving spirit and identity of the Friars over time.
  • Diverse Coaching Legacies: Throughout their history, the Friars have been shaped by a variety of coaches, each bringing their own unique philosophies and strategies, which have significantly influenced the team’s playing style and ethos.
  • Producing Basketball Greats: The team has a proud tradition of nurturing talent, having produced several notable NBA players. This legacy of excellence highlights the team’s role as a crucible for developing basketball talent.
  • Community and Charitable Engagement: Beyond the court, the Friars have made significant contributions to local communities, emphasizing their role not just as athletes but as active and responsible members of society.

Providence Friars Latest News

The Historical Tapestry of the Providence Friars

The history of the Providence Friars is a mosaic of growth, challenges, and triumphs. Starting as a modest program, the team evolved through the post-war era, where they began to make their mark in college basketball. The 1970s and 1980s were particularly transformative, with innovative coaching and strategic advancements that catapulted the team to national prominence. This section takes a deep dive into these historical milestones, exploring how they shaped the team’s identity and laid the foundation for future successes.

The Golden Era: The Impact of Coach Rick Pitino

The mid-1980s heralded a golden era for the Friars under the stewardship of Coach Rick Pitino. His dynamic and forward-thinking approach to the game, emphasizing a fast-paced style and a focus on three-point shooting, revolutionized the team’s play. This era saw the emergence of standout players like Billy Donovan and Delray Brooks, who were instrumental in leading the team to significant NCAA tournament achievements. The influence of Pitino’s philosophy extended beyond his tenure, leaving a lasting impact on the team’s approach to the game.

Legendary Figures in Providence Friars History

The tapestry of the Providence Friars is adorned with the names of legendary coaches and players who have left an indelible mark on the team and the sport. From influential figures like Joe Mullaney to NBA draftee Marvin Barnes, this section profiles these key personalities, exploring their contributions and how they’ve shaped the team’s legacy.

 A Game to Remember

The 1997 NCAA Tournament game against Duke stands as a shining example of the Friars’ resilience and skill. This section narrates the story of this epic encounter, delving into the game’s context, key moments, and the lasting impact it had on the team and its fans.

Providence Friars 2024 Schedule

Regular Season

Week Date Opponent Result
Week 1 Date: Mon 06/11/2023 Opponent: Columbia Lions Result: W 78-59
Week 1 Date: Sat 11/11/2023 Opponent: Milwaukee Panthers Result: W 79-69
Week 2 Date: Tue 14/11/2023 Opponent: Wisconsin Badgers Result: W 72-59
Week 2 Date: Fri 17/11/2023 Opponent: Kansas State Wildcats Result: L 70-73
Week 2 Date: Sun 19/11/2023 Opponent: Georgia Bulldogs Result: W 71-64
Week 3 Date: Fri 24/11/2023 Opponent: Lehigh Mountain Hawks Result: W 78-64
Week 4 Date: Tue 28/11/2023 Opponent: Wagner Seahawks Result: W 86-52
Week 4 Date: Sat 02/12/2023 Opponent: Rhode Island Rams Result: W 84-69
Week 5 Date: Tue 05/12/2023 Opponent: Oklahoma Sooners Result: L 51-72
Week 5 Date: Sun 10/12/2023 Opponent: Brown Bears Result: W 74-54
Week 6 Date: Sat 16/12/2023 Opponent: Sacred Heart Pioneers Result: W 78-64
Week 7 Date: Tue 19/12/2023 Opponent: Marquette Golden Eagles Result: W 72-57
Week 7 Date: Sat 23/12/2023 Opponent: Butler Bulldogs Result: W 85-75
Week 8 Date: BYE Opponent: BYE Result: BYE
Week 9 Date: Wed 03/01/2024 Opponent: Seton Hall Pirates Result: L 57-61
Week 9 Date: Sat 06/01/2024 Opponent: Creighton Bluejays Result: L 60-69
Week 10 Date: Wed 10/01/2024 Opponent: St. John’s Red Storm Result: L 73-75
Week 10 Date: Sat 13/01/2024 Opponent: Xavier Musketeers Result: L 65-85
Week 11 Date: Wed 17/01/2024 Opponent: DePaul Blue Demons Result: W 100-62
Week 12 Date: Wed 24/01/2024 Opponent: Seton Hall Pirates Result: W 67-63
Week 12 Date: Sat 27/01/2024 Opponent: Georgetown Hoyas Result: W 84-76
Week 13 Date: Wed 31/01/2024 Opponent: Connecticut Huskies Result: L 65-74
Week 13 Date: Sun 04/02/2024 Opponent: Villanova Wildcats Result: L 50-68
Week 14 Date: Wed 07/02/2024 Opponent: Creighton Bluejays Result: W 91-87
Week 14 Date: Sat 10/02/2024 Opponent: Butler Bulldogs Result: L 72-75
Week 15 Date: Tue 13/02/2024 Opponent: St. John’s Red Storm Result: W 75-72
Week 15 Date: Sat 17/02/2024 Opponent: DePaul Blue Demons Result: W 81-70
Week 16 Date: Wed 21/02/2024 Opponent: Xavier Musketeers Result: W 79-75
Week 17 Date: Wed 28/02/2024 Opponent: Marquette Golden Eagles Result: L 69-91
Week 17 Date: Sat 02/03/2024 Opponent: Villanova Wildcats Result: L 60-71
Week 18 Date: Tue 05/03/2024 Opponent: Georgetown Hoyas Result: W 71-58
Week 18 Date: Sat 09/03/2024 Opponent: Connecticut Huskies Result: L 60-74

Post Season

Week Date Opponent Result
Conf. Tournament Date: Wed 13/03/2024 Opponent: Georgetown Hoyas Result: W 74-56
Conf. Tournament Date: Thu 14/03/2024 Opponent: Creighton Bluejays Result: W 78-73
Conf. Tournament Date: Fri 15/03/2024 Opponent: Marquette Golden Eagles Result: L 68-79
NIT Date: Tue 19/03/2024 Opponent: Boston College Eagles Result: L 57-62

Home of the Providence Friars: Dunkin’ Donuts Center

The Dunkin’ Donuts Center, more than just a sports venue, is a symbol of the Friars’ sporting spirit and history. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and passionate fans, the arena has been the backdrop for numerous memorable games. This section describes the history, significance, and unique features of the Dunkin’ Donuts Center, offering insights into why it’s considered one of the most electrifying environments in college basketball.