Providence basketball opens the Kim English era on the right foot vs. Columbia

Providence’s New Head Coach, Kim English, Starts Strong with a Win Against Columbia

In a remarkable debut, Kim English led the Providence Friars to a resounding victory against Columbia on Monday night. The team showcased their dominance, particularly in the first half, effectively securing the win. However, what caught everyone’s attention was English’s own assessment of the game. He enthusiastically shared his experience as he marveled at the capacity crowd of 11,069 fans, stating that he had never seen such support on an opening night in his 14 years of college basketball.

English’s previous coaching stops at football-centric schools could not compare to the basketball-focused atmosphere at Providence. This transition marks a significant step up in his career, coming from George Mason, where he spent the last two seasons as an assistant coach under Ed Cooley.

Columbia posed no real threat to Providence, having only won seven games in the previous season. Bryce Hopkins led the Friars with 14 points, along with three other players scoring in double figures. Providence dominated in areas such as points in the paint (46-26) and points off the bench (24-11).

Excited about the team’s excellent performance, graduate transfer Ticket Gaines, who followed English from George Mason, shared his enthusiasm and eagerness to play more games for the Friars. With such a remarkable start, Providence looks forward to their upcoming game against Milwaukee.

Here are some key points to consider as we approach the next match:

Providence Defense Shines Early: Gaines and Devin Carter brought a burst of energy from the bench in the first half, diving for a loose ball and igniting a Providence run. Their defensive prowess has the potential to make a significant impact for the team, as Carter himself emphasized the importance of a defense-oriented approach.

Solid Performance from the Providence Bench: Despite the unfortunate early departure of Garwey Dual due to an ankle injury, the bench stepped up, with Rafael Castro delivering an outstanding performance off the bench. Castro’s 13 points, efficient shooting, and three blocks in just 15 minutes showcased his impact on the game.

Friars Coaches Working in Harmony: English, along with his assistant coaches Dennis Felton and Nate Tomlinson, showcased a strong chemistry during breaks in the game. Their ability to communicate and collaborate effectively reflects the type of teamwork they expect from their players.

Overall, the Providence Friars demonstrated their potential and excitement for the season ahead. With English at the helm and a strong team performance, the Friars are eager to continue their winning streak.

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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.