Here’s what Big East coaches think of the Providence men’s basketball team

NEW YORK — Providence College has some climbing to do and could use a couple of players to emerge if Wednesday’s men’s basketball predictions are to be believed.

The Friars were picked sixth in the Big East preseason poll, which was released at Madison Square Garden. Bryce Hopkins was selected to the all-conference first team, a hopeful conclusion for a veteran still working his way back from a major left knee injury.

The real choosing will be done on the floor here some five months from now at the league tournament. Providence battled to last year’s semifinals despite being shorthanded and eventually reached the NIT. League favorite Connecticut returns as the two-time national champion, and the Huskies received the maximum 10 first-place votes.

“We want to win every game,” Providence coach Kim English said. “We want to play well every game. We respect all of our opponents, but we’ll be good.”

Providence Friars forward Bryce Hopkins, shown in action last season against Butler, has been selected to the All-Big East preseason first team, it was announced on Wednesday.

More: Providence basketball has already sold 99% of its season tickets for next season

Hopkins played in just 14 games as a junior, averaging 15.5 points and 8.6 rebounds before going down against Seton Hall. He’s been ruled out for at least the Nov. 4 opener against Central Connecticut State but remains among the expected elite here. Creighton center Ryan Kalkbrenner was named preseason Player of the Year and Hopkins was joined on the first team by Alex Karaban (UConn), Kam Jones (Marquette), Kadary Richmond (St. John’s) and Eric Dixon (Villanova).

“I can’t think about that too much because I need to get back on the court first,” Hopkins said. “But I just take it as I’m blessed — very blessed. I appreciate everything.”

Creighton and Xavier followed the Huskies, who also placed Saint Mary’s transfer Aidan Mahaney on the third team. Marquette received a lone first-place vote and…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/heres-big-east-coaches-think-100805944.html

Author : The Providence Journal

Publish date : 2024-10-24 10:08:00

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