Constant Improvement: The Guiding Philosophy of Providence Basketball Coach Kim English

In a world where change is the only constant, Providence basketball coach Kim English has embraced the Japanese philosophy of Kaizen. Derived from the language that predates modern social media platforms, Kaizen represents English’s commitment to continuous improvement. Although its literal translation is “change for the better,” it encompasses the concept of making small, incremental progress every day.

Since joining Providence College in late March, English has made his dedication to Kaizen apparent both publicly and behind closed doors. While preparing for the upcoming season, the team has been focused on refining their skills and enhancing their performance. The recent Mal Brown Scrimmage and the scheduled game against Saint Joseph’s serve as valuable opportunities to fine-tune their strategies before the season opener against Columbia.

One notable aspect of English’s coaching style is his ability to inspire players to stay committed. Despite the temptation to transfer, several Friars on the roster, including Corey Floyd Jr., Bryce Hopkins, Devin Carter, Jayden Pierre, and Rafael Castro, chose to remain with Providence. Their decision reflects their trust in English and their shared belief in making a lasting impact during his first year as head coach.

Prior to his role at Providence, English gained valuable experience working with other basketball programs such as Tulsa, Colorado, and Tennessee. Despite facing challenges, his coaching abilities shone through as he led the Patriots to a seven-game winning streak in his second season, thereby improving his career record. His skills in adapting lineups and adjusting playing styles were instrumental in the team’s success.

The Providence basketball team has witnessed its fair share of victories under English’s guidance. Notable wins against the University of Rhode Island and Dayton showcased the team’s resilience and determination. Although their conference tournament journey ended in disappointment, these losses have only fueled their motivation to perform better in the upcoming season.

When Providence athletic director Steve Napolillo sought a new head coach, he had two names in mind: Kim English and Micah Shrewsberry. Ultimately, English stood out due to his youthful energy, determination to climb the ranks, and a shared vision with the administration. English’s six-year contract solidified his partnership with Providence, setting the stage for continued growth and success.

English wasted no time in completing his team roster and assembling a strong coaching staff. He brought along familiar faces from George Mason, including Ticket Gaines, Josh Oduro, and Justyn Fernandez. Additionally, he successfully recruited promising players like Richard Barron, Garwey Dual, and Donovan Santoro. These early steps generated immense excitement, resulting in a sold-out season ticket inventory before summer even began.

The anticipation for Providence’s upcoming season has reached far beyond the college basketball community. Former guard David Duke Jr. expressed his eagerness to watch the team’s progress, even as he pursues his professional career with the Philadelphia 76ers. The dedication and hard work put in by the players and coaching staff have undoubtedly captured attention and piqued curiosity.

Kim English’s next challenge comes at Big East Media Day, where he will be in the company of esteemed coaches such as Ed Cooley, Rick Pitino, and the national champions from Connecticut. As English takes center stage at Madison Square Garden, it is clear that his commitment to Kaizen will guide him and his team towards reaching their ultimate goal of success.

One day better than the next, that’s the essence of Kaizen.

Contact Bill Koch at [email protected] or on Twitter at @BillKoch25.

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Providence basketball coach Kim English has guiding phrase for his team

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Laura Davis

Laura Davis covers the world of basketball with precision. Her articles explore NBA and college basketball, offering game analysis, player profiles, and highlights. Laura’s passion for hoops is evident in her comprehensive basketball coverage.