Providence College (PC) has a long and storied history in the BIG EAST Conference, with two tournament titles in 1994 and 2014. However, their overall record of 25-39 shows the ups and downs of the program. Despite this, the Friars have consistently been an NCAA tournament-caliber team, with several appearances in recent years.
One of the biggest rivals for PC is the UConn men's basketball team. The two teams have faced off numerous times over the years, with their most recent matchup taking place in the Big East Tournament at Madison Square Garden. The rivalry has been marked by intense games and passionate fans, with UConn head coach Jim Calhoun referring to PC fans as "arrogant."
Despite some struggles in recent seasons, the Friars remain a competitive team in the BIG EAST. In fact, the 2023 NCAA Tournament field includes several teams that PC has faced before, with a record of 197-227 against those teams. This season, the Friars finished tied for fourth in the conference, with an 8-0 record in home games.
One of the highlights of the season was a victory over Villanova, one of the top teams in the conference. The Wildcats were dominated by the Friars, who played with a level of intensity and skill that has become synonymous with the program. The game was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaching staff.
One of the key factors in PC's success is their ability to recruit top talent. The coaching staff has a reputation for developing players and helping them reach their full potential. This has led to several players being drafted into the NBA, including Kris Dunn and Ben Bentil.
Another aspect of PC's success is their fan base. The Providence community is passionate about basketball, and the team has a loyal following of students and alumni. The atmosphere at games is electric, with fans cheering on the team and creating a home court advantage.
Overall, PC basketball has a rich history and a bright future. The program has faced its share of challenges, but has always remained competitive and dedicated to excellence. With a talented roster and dedicated coaching staff, the Friars are poised for continued success in the BIG EAST and beyond.
