Providence will begin the second season of the Kim English era when Central Connecticut State visits Rhode Island’s capital city on Monday night.
The Friars were led to a 21-14 record, including an NIT exit, by lottery pick Devin Carter last season, but this is a new team. So, opening a five-game stand before making the trip to Battle 4 Atlantis in the Bahamas will allow the English team to make a name for themselves.
“No Josh Oduro, no Devin Carter, no Davonte Gaines, who is this team going to be?” It means English at Big East Media Day. “We’re going to play hard, we’re going to be strong, we’re going to defend, but we’re looking at (where) we had to improve after last season – our ball security, shooting, rebounding, offensive efficiency.”
Four transfers and seven total newcomers join the team in 2024-25, but the return of preseason All-Big East pick Bryce Hopkins provides the biggest boost.
Hopkins averaged 15.5 points and 8.6 rebounds per game before suffering a season-ending knee injury in January. Although he did not play in Saturday’s 63-54 exhibition win over Mass., there is hope that he can open the season in time.
“He’s in a good place and he’s confident in his game,” English said.
In terms of transfers, the Friars have Massachusetts native Bensley Joseph (Miami) and Wesley Cardet Jr. (Chicago State) former four-star recruit joins junior Jayden Pierre in the backfield, while Christ Essandoko (Saint Joseph’s) adds a 7-foot presence inside. .
“There is still a lot to be decided because you don’t really know a person until you see them under the lights,” said English.
Also returning is Rich Barron, a 42.9-point 3-percent shooter who earned Big East All-Rookie honors.
Central Connecticut State is coming off its first Northeast Conference regular-season championship in 17 years. The Blue Devils, who finished 20-11 last season, tied for the top preseason poll with Wagner.
“We had a group of older guys that have been together for a long time,” fourth-year CCSU coach Pat Sellers said. “They were really comfortable with our system. … (Everything) came together.”
The momentum of the program continues with the return of four-year seniors — a rarity in today’s college basketball. The team includes big man Jayden Brown, who shot 52.6 percent from the floor in his junior season.
Central’s lone returning NEC All-Star: senior guard Jordan Jones (13.1 points, 3.5 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.8 steals per game in 2023-24).
“They’re a big part of our culture, and they do a great job of welcoming the new guys,” Sellers said.
–Field Level Media
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