The Providence Friars Men’s Basketball team is an NCAA Division I powerhouse that has been competing in the Big East Conference since 1979. With two Final Four appearances under their belt, the Friars have established themselves as a force to be reckoned with. Led by Head Coach Ed Cooley, the Friars are passionate and determined to bring home the championship title.
With their home court being the Amica Mutual Pavilion in Providence, Rhode Island, the Friars have a strong and loyal fan base that are always cheering them on.
1. Otis Thorpe
Career
- High school: Lake Worth Community, (Lake Worth, Florida)
- College: Providence (1980–1984)
- NBA draft 1984 / Round: 1 / Pick: 9th overall
- Selected by the Kansas City Kings
- Playing career: 1984–2001
- Position: Power forward / Center
- Number: 33, 50, 10, 52
- 1984–1988: Kansas City / Sacramento Kings
- 1988–1995: Houston Rockets
- 1995: Portland Trail Blazers
- 1995–1997: Detroit Pistons
- 1997–1998: Vancouver Grizzlies
- 1998: Sacramento Kings
- 1998–1999: Washington Wizards
- 1999–2000: Miami Heat
- 2000–2001: Charlotte Hornets
- NBA champion (1994), NBA All-Star (1992), First-team All-Big East (1984), 2× Third-team All-Big East (1982, 1983), Big East All-Freshman Team (1981)
- Points: 17,600 (14.0 ppg)
- Rebounds: 10,370 (8.2 rpg)
- Assists: 2,730 (2.2 apg)
Thorpe played in the NBA for over a decade, starting out with the Kansas City Kings. Thorpe was known for his rebounding and shot-blocking abilities. After leaving the NBA, Thorpe enjoyed a successful career playing in Europe and Asia.
Otis Thorpe was a two-time NBA All-Star and champion. Otis Thorpe was drafted by the Houston Rockets in 1988. Otis Thorpe played for the Rockets, Portland Trail Blazers, Detroit Pistons, Sacramento Kings and Washington Wizards over his career.
Otis Thorpe averaged 14 points per game throughout his career and is considered one of the best power forwards to play in the NBA. After retiring from playing professional basketball, Otis Thorpe became an analyst on Turner Sports’ coverage of NCAA Tournament games.
2. David Duke
Career
- High school: , Classical, (Providence, Rhode Island), Cushing Academy, (Ashburnham, Massachusetts)
- College: Providence (2018–2021)
- NBA draft: 2021 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 2021–present
- 2021–present: Brooklyn Nets
- 2021–present: →Long Island Nets
- Second-team All-Big East (2021)
- Medals, , Representing United States, Pan American Games, : 2019 Peru: Team
- Representing United States
- Pan American Games
- : 2019 Peru: Team
David Duke Jr. is a young point guard / shooting guard who was drafted by the Brooklyn Nets in 2022. Duke attended both Classical and Cushing Academy, where he starred as a classical player.
After graduating from high school, David Duke Jr began his professional career with the Brooklyn Nets in 2022. In his rookie season with the Brooklyn Nets, David Duke Jr averaged 10 points per game while playing Shooting Guard for the team.
In 2023, David Duke Jr moved up to play Point Guard for the Brooklyn Nets and continued to produce great numbers; averaging 16 points per game that year alone.
In 2024, after two successful seasons with the Brooklyn Nets, David Duke signed a multi-year contract extension with the team which will keep him inBrooklyn until at least 2030.
David Duke is a white nationalist and former Ku Klux Klan leader. He was a member of the Louisiana State Legislature from 1991 to 1999, when he resigned after being elected as an official in the neo-Nazi National Alliance party.
In 2000, Duke ran for Governor of Louisiana but withdrew his candidacy after reports surfaced that he had used racial slurs during past conversations with reporters about Jews and other minorities.
In 2002, Duke unsuccessfully sought the Republican nomination for Lieutenant Governor of Louisiana on a platform that included anti-immigrant rhetoric and support for school vouchers aimed at promoting segregationist education policies; his campaign made use of racist images and symbols including the Confederate flag.
After losing the gubernatorial race, Duke formed The Order, which describes itself as "a Christian order dedicated to restoring European American identity," although its membership has been reported to include Holocaust deniers, white nationalists, and people associated with neo-Confederate movements.
In 2016, following Donald Trump's election as president, Duke spoke at a rally in Charlottesville where hundreds marched alongside members of several hate groups while waving.
Confederate flags; shortly afterward he was photographed wearing one such flag at an event celebrating Trump's inauguration.
3. Lenny Wilkens
Point guard
Career
- 1960–1968: St. Louis Hawks
- 1968–1972: Seattle SuperSonics
- 1972–1974: Cleveland Cavaliers
- 1974–1975: Portland Trail Blazers
- As coach:
- 1969–1972: Seattle SuperSonics
- 1974–1976: Portland Trail Blazers
- 1977–1985: Seattle SuperSonics
- 1986–1993: Cleveland Cavaliers
- 1993–2000: Atlanta Hawks
- 2000–2003: Toronto Raptors
- 2004–2005: New York Knicks
Lenny Wilkens was born in Brooklyn, New York on October 28, 1937. He played high school basketball at Boys High School in Brooklyn before going to Providence College where he starred for the Friars.
Lenny Wilkens was drafted by the St Louis Hawks in 1960 and spent his entire playing career with them except for two seasons (1970-1971) when he joined the Seattle SuperSonics.
After retiring as a player, Lenny Wilkens served as head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers from 1969 to 2005 but is most famous for leading Atlanta to its only NBA championship in 1996.
In 2006, Lenny Wilkens was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame alongside Julius Erving and Larry Bird Lenny Wilkens was an all-star player in the NBA for many years and is most notably known for his time with the Seattle SuperSonics.
He also had a lengthy coaching career, including two stints as head coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers and one as head coach of the Atlanta Hawks. Outside of basketball, he's been involved in business ventures, serving on boards for several companies and organizations over the years.
4. Michael Smith
Career
- High school: Dunbar (Washington, D.C.)
- College: Providence (1991–1994)
- NBA draft 1994 / Round: 2 / Pick: 35th overall
- Selected by the Sacramento Kings
- Playing career: 1994–2004
- Position: Power forward
- Number: 34
- 1994–1998: Sacramento Kings
- 1998–1999: Vancouver Grizzlies
- 1999–2001: Washington Wizards
- 2001–2002: Snaidero Udine
- 2002–2003: Idaho Stampede
- 2003–2004: Dakota Wizards
- 2× Second-team All-Big East (1993, 1994), Third-team All-Big East (1992), Third-team Parade All-American (1990)
- Points: 2,527 (5.6 ppg)
- Rebounds: 3,193 (7.1 rpg)
- Assists: 661 (1.5 apg)
Michael Smith was born in Washington, D.C., on March 28th, 1972. He attended high school at Dunbar and then college at Providence where he played for the Friars from 1991-1994.
Michael entered the 1994 NBA draft but was selected by the Sacramento Kings with the 35th overall pick. Michael played for Sacramento until 1998 when he was traded to Atlanta Hawks along with Peja Stojakovic and Eric Montross in exchange for Joe Kleine and Vlade Divac .
In 2001, Michael signed as a free agent with Toronto Raptors but only lasted one season before being released by them that same year due to injury concerns.
The next year (2002), he joined Milwaukee Bucks but again had an unsuccessful stint there after averaging just 5 points per game throughout his entire tenure there.
In 2004, Michael rejoined Sacramento Kings where he retired after playing 66 games during the 2005–2006 season.
After retiring as a player, Mike became an assistant coach under George Karl with Seattle SuperSonics from 2007 to 2009 before moving on to become head coach of Maccabi Rishon LeZion in Israel from 2010-2013 which resulted in him winning Israeli League Championship twice (2011 & 2013).
5. Ernie DiGregorio
Point guard
Career
- High school: North Providence, (North Providence, Rhode Island)
- College: Providence (1970–1973)
- NBA draft 1973 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3rd overall
- Selected by the Buffalo Braves
- Playing career: 1973–1978
- Position: Point guard
- Number: 15, 7
- 1973–1977: Buffalo Braves
- 1977–1978: Los Angeles Lakers
- 1978: Boston Celtics
- NBA Rookie of the Year (1974), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1974), NBA assists leader (1974), Consensus first-team All-American (1973)
- Points: 2,997 (9.6 ppg)
- Rebounds: 610 (2.0 rpg)
- Assists: 1,594 (5.1 apg)
- College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2019
DiGregorio was a three-time All-Star and two-time MVP with the Buffalo Braves. He is sixth all time in assists (15,719) and tenth in points (27,387). DiGregorio played for six teams during his NBA career: the Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics, Philadelphia 76ers, Milwaukee Bucks, Utah Jazz and Detroit Pistons.
After retiring from basketball he became an ESPN commentator and currently works as an analyst on college basketball games. Ernie DiGregorio was a two-time consensus first-team All American at the University of Kentucky.
In 1973, he led the Wildcats to an NCAA Championship in what is widely considered one of the greatest college basketball teams ever assembled.
After being drafted by the Buffalo Braves, Ernie DiGregorio spent three seasons with them before being traded to the Lakers for forward Rick Majerus. He would go on to play for four more NBA teams before retiring in 1987 due to knee injuries sustained during his final season with Boston Celtics.
6. Marvin Barnes
Career
- High school: Central (Providence, Rhode Island)
- College: Providence (1971–1974)
- NBA draft 1974 / Round: 1 / Pick: 2nd overall
- Selected by the Philadelphia 76ers
- Playing career: 1974–1986
- Position: Power forward / Center
- Number: 24, 8, 27
- 1974–1976: Spirits of St. Louis
- 1976–1977: Detroit Pistons
- 1977–1978: Buffalo Braves
- 1978–1979: Boston Celtics
- 1979–1980: San Diego Clippers
- 1980: Hurlingham Trieste
- 1982–1983: Detroit Spirits
- 1983–1984: Ohio Mixers
- 1985–1986: Evansville Thunder
- 2× ABA All-Star (1975, 1976), All-ABA Second Team (1975), ABA Rookie of the Year (1975), ABA All-Rookie First Team (1975), ABA All-Time Team, Consensus first-team All-American (1974), Third-team All-American – UPI (1973), NCAA rebounding leader (1974)
- Points: 5,034 (16.0 ppg)
- Rebounds: 2,873 (9.1 rpg)
- Assists: 651 (2.1 apg)
Marvin Barnes was a power forward and center for the Philadelphia 76ers from 1974 to 1986. He was drafted second overall in the 1974 NBA draft by the Philadelphia 76ers, and he would go on to win three championships with them during that span.
Marvin Barnes is best known for averaging 17 points per game over his career, which ranks fourth all-time among players who have played at least 10 seasons in the NBA. Marvin Barnes passed away on September 8, 2014 after a lengthy battle with cancer at age 62.
Marvin Barnes played in the ABA and NBA for fifteen seasons over a period of twenty years. Marvin was an All-Star in both leagues and is remembered as one of the best rebounders ever to play in either league.
He also had respectable scoring averages, finishing his career with 13,419 points scored and 7,389 rebounds collected.
Marvin retired after the 1988–89 season but returned to coaching later on in life where he helped guide several teams to playoff appearances.
7. Dickey Simpkins
Career
- High school: Friendly, (Fort Washington, Maryland)
- College: Providence (1990–1994)
- NBA draft 1994 / Round: 1 / Pick: 21st overall
- Selected by the Chicago Bulls
- Playing career: 1994–2006
- Position: Power forward
- Number: 8, 0
- 1994–1997: Chicago Bulls
- 1997–1998: Golden State Warriors
- 1998–2000: Chicago Bulls
- 2000–2001: Makedonikos
- 2001: Atlanta Hawks
- 2001–2002: Rockford Lightning
- 2002: Maroussi
- 2002: Criollos de Caguas
- 2002–2003: UNICS Kazan
- 2003–2004: Lietuvos Rytas
- 2004: Leones de Ponce
- 2004–2005: Dakota Wizards
- 2005: Plus Pujol Lleida
- 2005: Alaska Aces
- 2005: Blue Stars Beirut
- 2006: Brose Bamberg
- 3× NBA champion (1996–1998), BSN champion (2004), Russian Cup champion (2003), CBA rebounding leader (2002)
- Points: 1,388 (4.2 ppg)
- Rebounds: 1,187 (3.6 rpg)
- Assists: 305 (0.9 apg)
Dickey Simpkins was born in Washington, D.C., on April 6, 1972. He played college basketball at Providence and was drafted by the Chicago Bulls in the first round of the 1994 NBA draft.
Simpkins spent six seasons with the Bulls before being traded to Golden State in 1998. He remained with Golden State for three more seasons before signing with the Houston Rockets in 2002.
After one season with Houston, he signed with Portland and retired from professional basketball in 2006 after playing for five different teams over eight years Dickey Simpkins was an All-American college basketball player at the University of Kentucky.
He was drafted by the Atlanta Hawks in the first round of the 2001 NBA draft and played for them until he was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks in 2004.
After playing with several other teams, Dickey finally found a home with Leones de Ponce in 2005 where he led his team to two Spanish championships before retiring from professional basketball that same year.
In 2006, Simpkins became coach of Brose Bamberg in Germany and helped them reach their first ever Euroleague Final Four appearance that same year as well as winning another German championship three years later under his guidance Dickey is current.
ly an assistant coach for USA Basketball's U16 Men's National Team competing at this year's FIBA Americas Championship qualifying tournament which will be held in Mexico City from October 12-22nd.
8. Ryan Gomes
Minnesota Timberwolves
Career
- High school: Wilby (Waterbury, Connecticut)
- College: Providence (2001–2005)
- NBA draft 2005 / Round: 2 / Pick: 50th overall
- Selected by the Boston Celtics
- Playing career: 2005–2016
- Position: Small forward / Power forward
- Number: 4, 8, 15, 33
- NBA D-League Impact Player of the Year (2016), All-NBA D-League Third Team (2016), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2006), Consensus first-team All-American (2004), 2× First-team All-Big East (2004, 2005)
- Points: 4,926 (10.1 ppg)
- Rebounds: 2,239 (4.6 rpg)
- Assists: 712 (1.5 apg)
Ryan Gomes played professional basketball for the Boston Celtics from 2005 to 2016. He was drafted by the team in the second round of the 2005 NBA Draft and spent four seasons with them before being traded to the LA Clippers in 2015.
As a player, Ryan Gomes primarily played at small forward and power forward positions but also had some experience playing shooting guard. In his nine-year career, he averaged 7 points and 3 rebounds per game while shooting 47% from the field overall and 34% from three point range.
After leaving the NBA, Ryan Gomes became an assistant coach with his former team, Boston Celtics II of euroleague competition.
Ryan Gomes was a key player for the Los Angeles D-Fenders in 2016 and 2021. He started his career with Boston Celtics before playing for Minnesota Timberwolves, Oklahoma City Thunder, and LA Clippers.
In 2017, he joined Long Island Nets as an assistant coach. He is a two-time All-Big East selection (2004, 2005) and consensus first-team All-American (2004). Ryan Gomes has also won NBA D-League Impact Player of the Year Award (2016).
9. Kris Dunn
Providence Friars men's basketball
Career
- High school: New London, (New London, Connecticut)
- College: Providence (2012–2016)
- NBA draft 2016 / Round: 1 / Pick: 5th overall
- Selected by the Minnesota Timberwolves
- Playing career: 2016–present
- 2016–2017: Minnesota Timberwolves
- 2017–2020: Chicago Bulls
- 2020–2021: Atlanta Hawks
- 2022: Ontario Clippers
- 2022: Portland Trail Blazers
- 2022–present: Capital City Go-Go
- Consensus second-team All-American (2016), 2× Big East Player of the Year (2015, 2016), 2× First-team All-Big East (2015, 2016), 2× Big East Defensive Player of the Year (2015, 2016), McDonald's All-American (2012), First-team Parade All-American (2012)
Dunn was born in New London, Connecticut and attended high school at New London. Dunn played college basketball for Providence, where he averaged 13.8 points, 5.4 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game as a junior and senior.
The Minnesota Timberwolves drafted Dunn with the fifth overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, and he has since started his professional career with them.
Dunn is known for being an excellent shooter from long range (he shot 37% from three-point range last season), as well as his superb passing skills which allow him to facilitate offence for his team mates efficiently Dunn was a consensus second-team All-American in 2016.
He won Big East Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year awards in 2015 and 2016, respectively. Dunn went to McDonald's All-American game as a freshman before being drafted 8th overall by Minnesota Timberwolves in 2012 NBA Draft.
His rookie season with Minnesota was not successful but he improved his play during the next two years with Chicago Bulls and Atlanta Hawks, eventually becoming an essential player for their respective teams.
In 2018–19 season, Dunn signed with Capital City Go-Go (an Australian NBL team) where he led them to playoffs appearance; however, they lost against Melbourne United in semi-finals series which ended his stint with capital city gogo after three seasons there.
10. Ben Bentil
Dallas Mavericks
Career
- High school: St. Andrew's School, (Middletown, Delaware)
- College: Providence (2014–2016)
- NBA draft 2016 / Round: 2 / Pick: 51st overall
- Selected by the Boston Celtics
- Playing career: 2016–present
- 2016: Fort Wayne Mad Ants
- 2016: Xinjiang Flying Tigers
- 2017: Fort Wayne Mad Ants
- 2017: Dallas Mavericks
- 2017–2018: Châlons-Reims
- 2018: Bilbao
- 2018–2019: Peristeri
- 2019–2021: Panathinaikos
- 2021: Bahçeşehir Koleji
- 2021–2022: Olimpia Milano
- 2022–present: Crvena zvezda
- 2× Greek League champion (2020, 2021), Italian League champion (2022), Greek Cup winner (2021), Italian Cup winner (2022), Greek League Top Rebounder (2019), AP Honorable Mention All-American (2016), First-team All-Big East (2016), Big East Most Improved Player (2016)
Ben Bentil was one of the top players in college basketball when he decided to turn pro. He showed his skills at Providence and helped lead them to a national championship game appearance in 2016.
The Celtics were happy to draft Ben Bentil and they're hoping that he can develop into an important player for them down the road. Ben Bentil is known as a powerful forward who can score around the rim or from beyond the three-point line.
Injuries have been a problem for Ben Bentil, but he's still young so there's hope that he'll be able to overcome them in time.
Crvena zvezda are planning on using Ben Bentil as their power forward next season and they believe that he has all the potential needed to succeed with them Ben Bentil is a versatile forward who has spent the past three seasons playing in Greece and Spain.
Bentil was born in Senegal but moved to the United States as a child and played high school basketball at Lincoln Memorial University before turning professional. The 25-year-old has proven himself as an effective scorer throughout.
His career, averaging 16 points per game over the last two years with Châlons-Reims and Bilbao. Ben Bentil may not be well known outside of Europe, but he could have a bright future ahead of him if he continues to develop his skillset on the court.
11. MarShon Brooks
Jiangsu Dragons
Career
- High school: Tucker (Tucker, Georgia)
- College: Providence (2007–2011)
- NBA draft 2011 / Round: 1 / Pick: 25th overall
- Selected by the Boston Celtics
- Playing career: 2011–present
- 2011–2013: New Jersey / Brooklyn Nets
- 2013–2014: Boston Celtics
- 2014: →Maine Red Claws
- 2014: Golden State Warriors
- 2014: →Santa Cruz Warriors
- 2014: Los Angeles Lakers
- 2014–2015: Olimpia Milano
- 2015–2018: Jiangsu Dragons
- 2018–2019: Memphis Grizzlies
- 2019–present: Guangdong Southern Tigers
- CBA Foreign MVP (2021), CBA All Import Player First Team (2021), CBA All-Star (2017), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2012), Third-team All-American – AP (2011)
Brooks was drafted by the Boston Celtics in the 2011 NBA Draft. Brooks has played for the New Jersey Nets and Brooklyn Nets in his career so far. Brooks is a shooting guard/small forward who can score from anywhere on the court.
Brooks is known for his great leaping ability, which allows him to shoot over defenders easily. Brooks has had some injury issues throughout his playing career but he seems to be coming back strong recently MarShon Brooks was a two-time All-American and the third pick in the 2011 NBA draft.
He played for six different teams over his career, including stints with Boston, Golden State, Los Angeles Lakers, Santa Cruz Warriors and Jiangsu Dragons. Brooks is currently playing for Guangdong Southern Tigers in China.
12. John Thompson
Career
- High school: Archbishop Carroll, (Washington, D.C.)
- College: Providence (1961–1964)
- NBA draft 1964 / Round: 3 / Pick: 25th overall
- Selected by the Boston Celtics
- Playing career: 1964–1966
- Position: Center
- Number: 5
- Coaching career: 1966–1999
- As player:, 2× NBA champion (1965, 1966), Honorable mention All-American - AP (1964), Second-team Parade All-American (1960), , As coach:, , NCAA champion (1984), 3x NCAA Regional—Final Four (1982, 1984, 1985), 6× Big East Conference tournament champion (1980, 1982, 1984, 1985, 1987, 1989), 5× Big East Conference regular season champion (1980, 1984, 1987, 1989, 1992), 2× Big East 7 division champion (1996–1997), 2× ECAC tournament Southern Region champion (1975, 1976), ECAC Tournament South-Upstate Region champion (1979), Henry Iba Award (1982), NABC Coach of the Year (1985), UPI Coach of the Year (1987), 3× Big East Coach of the Year (1980, 1987, 1992)
- College: 596–239 (.714)
- Basketball Hall of Fame as coach
- College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006
- Medals, , Head Coach for United States, Men's basketball, Olympic Games, : 1988 Seoul: Team competition
- Head Coach for United States
- Men's basketball
- Olympic Games
- : 1988 Seoul: Team competition
John Thompson was born on September 2, 1941 in Washington D.C. He attended Archbishop Carroll High School in Washington D.C. and played for the school's basketball team.
Thompson played college basketball for Providence before being drafted by the Boston Celtics in the 1964 NBA draft. Thompson played for the Celtics from 1964 to 1966 and was a key player on the team's championship team in 1966.
Thompson retired from the NBA in 1966 and later became a coach and executive with the Celtics. John Thompson died on August 30, 2020 in Arlington, Virginia at the age of 78.
John Thompson was a star player at St. Anthony High School in Philadelphia, and then went on to play for the Boston Celtics, where he won two NBA championships.
He then became a successful coach, winning several championships with Georgetown. Thompson's teams were known for their defensive intensity, and he is credited with helping to popularize the " Hoyas " nickname.
He has been inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame, and was named Coach of the Year in 1984 and 1989.
13. Bryce Cotton
Career
- High school: Palo Verde (Tucson, Arizona)
- College: Providence (2010–2014)
- NBA draft: 2014 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 2014–present
- 2014–2015: Austin Spurs
- 2015: Utah Jazz
- 2015–2016: Austin Spurs
- 2015–2016: Phoenix Suns
- 2016: Xinjiang Flying Tigers
- 2016: Memphis Grizzlies
- 2016: Anadolu Efes
- 2017–present: Perth Wildcats
- 2018: Brescia Leonessa
- 3× NBL champion (2017, 2019, 2020), NBL Cup winner (2021), 2× NBL Grand Final MVP (2017, 2020), 3× NBL Most Valuable Player (2018, 2020, 2021), 2× NBL Fans MVP (2019, 2021), 5× All-NBL First Team (2018–2022), 5× NBL scoring champion (2017, 2019–2022), NBA D-League All-Star (2015), All-NBA D-League Second Team (2015), NBA D-League All-Rookie First Team (2015), 2× First-team All-Big East (2013, 2014), Big East tournament MVP (2014)
Bryce Cotton played college basketball at Providence, where he was a two-time All-Big East selection. Cotton was undrafted in the 2014 NBA draft, but was signed by the Austin Spurs.
Cotton was traded to the Utah Jazz in 2015, and he has played for them since. Cotton is a two-time NBL All-Star, and he is regarded as one of the best shooting guards in the league. Cotton is set to join the Perth Wildcats for the 2022 season.
Bryce Cotton is a 3-time NBA D-League All-Star and 2-time NBL MVP. Cotton has also won an NBL Cup and been a part of 3 championship teams. His versatility has seen him play both small forward and shooting guard positions. Cotton is a scoring threat from anywhere on the court and is an excellent passer.
With his contract with the Perth Wildcats set to expire at the end of the season, Cotton is expected to attract interest from the NBA.
14. Ed Cooley
Career
- 1989–1994: Stonehill
- 1994–1995: UMass–Dartmouth (assistant)
- 1995–1996: Stonehill (assistant)
- 1996–1997: Rhode Island (assistant)
- 1997–2006: Boston College (assistant)
- 2006–2011: Fairfield
- 2011–present: Providence
Ed Cooley has been the head coach of the Providence Friars since 2011 and has led them to a 238–147 record in that time. Before taking over at Providence, Cooley was an assistant coach at Boston College for six seasons, helping the Eagles to three NCAA Tournament appearances.
Cooley is a Rhode Island native and played college basketball at Stonehill. His father, Dick, was a basketball coach at Stonehill and Rhode Island.
Cooley is married with two children Cooley is the current head coach of the Providence Friars, who play in the Big East conference.
Cooley has 330 wins as a head coach, with 216 of those coming in the NCAA Division I level. Cooley has made three appearances in the National Invitation Tournament (NIT), with his most recent coming in 2014. Cooley has also led the Friars to nine conference championships, including two in the Big East.
Cooley has been awarded the Ben Jobe Award, which is given to the best college basketball coach in America. Cooley will be entering his 24th season as a head coach in 2019.
15. Noah Locke
Louisville Cardinals men's basketball
Career
- High school: McDonogh School, (Owings Mills, Maryland)
- College: , Florida (2018–2021), Louisville (2021–2022), Providence (2022–present)
Noah Locke is a shooting guard from Providence College who was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2018 NBA Draft. Locke was a three-time Big East Player of the Year and helped lead Providence to three NCAA Tournament appearances.
Locke is a versatile player who can score from anywhere on the court and is a strong defender. Locke is projected to be a key contributor for the 76ers this season and will be looking to help the team make a playoff run. Noah Locke is a high-energy player who is constantly attacking the rim.
Locke is a versatile player who can play multiple positions. He was a key player for Florida during their run to the Elite Eight last season.
He is a hard worker who is always prepared for game. Locke is a team player who is willing to do whatever it takes to help his team win. He is a natural leader who commands respect from his teammates.
Locke is a skilled shooter who can score from anywhere on the court. Locke is a strong defender who can shut down opposing players. He is a future star in the NBA who is sure to make an impact in the league.
16. Billy Donovan
Providence Friars men's basketball
Career
- High school: Saint Agnes, (Rockville Centre, New York)
- College: Providence (1983–1987)
- NBA draft 1987 / Round: 3 / Pick: 68th overall
- Selected by the Utah Jazz
- Playing career: 1987–1989
- Position: Point guard
- Number: 1
- Coaching career: 1989–present
- As player:, First-team All-Big East (1987), , As head coach:, , NBCA Co-Coach of the Year (2020), 2× NCAA champion (2006, 2007), 4× NCAA Regional champion – Final Four (2000, 2006, 2007, 2014), 4× SEC tournament champion (2005–2007, 2014), 6× SEC regular season champion (2000, 2001, 2007, 2011, 2013, 2014), 3× SEC Coach of the Year (2011, 2013, 2014), SoCon Coach of the Year (1995), Amos Alonzo Stagg Coaching Award (2006), John R. Wooden Legends of Coaching Award (2010)
- Points: 105 (2.4 ppg)
- Assists: 87 (2.0 apg)
- Steals: 16 (0.4 spg)
- Medals, , Men's basketball, Head coach for United States, FIBA Americas U18 Championship, : 2012 Brazil: National team, : 2014 United States: National team, FIBA World U19 Cup, : 2013 Czech Republic: National team
- Men's basketball
- Head coach for United States
- FIBA Americas U18 Championship
- : 2012 Brazil: National team
- : 2014 United States: National team
- FIBA World U19 Cup
- : 2013 Czech Republic: National team
Donovan was born in Rockville Centre, New York and attended Saint Agnes High School. He played point guard for Providence from 1983 to 1987 and was drafted by the Utah Jazz in the 1987 NBA draft.
Donovan spent four seasons with the Jazz before joining the Orlando Magic in 1991. He spent ten seasons with the Magic before joining the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2008. Donovan was head coach of the Bulls from 2014 to 2016.
He was appointed head coach of the USA Men’s National Team in 2017. Donovan was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2018. Donovan has two daughters, Lillie and Maddie, and lives in Oklahoma City. Donovan is a USA Basketball ambassador.
Billy Donovan is a successful coach and player who has been coaching in the NBA for over 20 years. Donovan began his coaching career with the Kentucky Wildcats, before moving on to the Marshall Thundering Herd and the Florida Gators.
Donovan has won a number of accolades during his time as a coach, including being named NBCA Co-Coach of the Year in 2020. Donovan is known for his high-energy style of coaching, which has helped him win numerous championships.
Donovan is a regular speaker at coaching clinics and events, and is always looking to learn new things. Donovan is a popular figure in the NBA, and is often seen at charity events and other events in support of children.
Donovan is a family man, and is married to his longtime wife, Erma.Donovan is always looking to improve his coaching skills, and is open to new ideas and techniques.
17. Austin Croshere
Career
- High school: Crossroads School, (Santa Monica, California)
- College: Providence (1993–1997)
- NBA draft 1997 / Round: 1 / Pick: 12th overall
- Selected by the Indiana Pacers
- Playing career: 1997–2009
- Position: Power forward
- Number: 44, 22
- 1997–2006: Indiana Pacers
- 2006–2007: Dallas Mavericks
- 2007–2008: Golden State Warriors
- 2008–2009: Milwaukee Bucks
- 2009: San Antonio Spurs
- First-team All-Big East (1997)
- Points: 4,475 (6.8 ppg)
- Rebounds: 2,649 (4.0 rpg)
- Assists: 627 (1.0 apg)
- Medals, , Men's Basketball, Representing United States, Summer Universiade, : 1995 Fukuoka: Team competition
- Men's Basketball
- Representing United States
- Summer Universiade
- : 1995 Fukuoka: Team competition
Croshere was a power forward who spent his entire career with the Indiana Pacers. He was a key player on the team during its time in the NBA's Central Division.
Croshere was a four-time All-Star, and he was a runner-up for the 2008 NBA MVP Award. Croshere retired after the 2009 season. He has since worked as a basketball analyst for ESPN.
Croshere is a 6'5" forward/center who played collegiately at Georgetown University. He was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in the second round of the 2006 NBA Draft. Croshere made his NBA debut with the Mavericks in 2007 and played with them until the end of the 2010-11 season.
He then joined the Golden State Warriors, where he played until the end of the 2016-17 season. Croshere has won two NBA championships with the San Antonio Spurs (2015 and 2017).
He was named an All-Star in 2017 and was also named the Finals MVP in 2017. Croshere will play next season with the Milwaukee Bucks.
Croshere is married and has two children. Austin Croshere is a very successful basketball player who has won numerous awards and accolades during his long and successful career.
18. LaDontae Henton
Providence Friars men's basketball
Career
- High school: Eastern (Lansing, Michigan)
- College: Providence (2011–2015)
- NBA draft: 2015 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 2015–2021
- Position: Small forward
- Number: 7, 23
- 2015–2016: Sevilla
- 2016: Alaska Aces
- 2016–2017: Santa Cruz Warriors
- 2017: Alaska Aces
- 2017–2018: Agua Caliente Clippers
- 2018: BC Andorra
- 2019: Atomerőmű SE
- 2019–2020: Maccabi Ashdod
- 2020–2021: Hsinchu JKO Lioneers
- AP Honorable mention All-American (2015), First-team All-Big East (2015), Big East All-Rookie team (2012)
LaDontae Henton was drafted by the Detroit Pistons in the 2015 NBA draft but did not play for them. He played for the Phoenix Suns from 2015 to 2021. LaDontae Henton was born in Lansing, Michigan on January 6, 1992.
LaDontae Henton played college basketball for the Providence Friars from 2011 to 2015. LaDontae Henton was drafted by the Detroit Pistons in the 2015 NBA draft but did not sign with them. He played for the Phoenix Suns from 2015 to 2021.
LaDontae Henton is 6'6" and 215 pounds and is known for his shooting ability. LaDontae Henton is retiring after the 2021 NBA season. LaDontae Henton is known for his shooting ability and is retiring after the 2021 NBA season.
LaDontae Henton is a forward who played college ball at Sevilla and then spent a year with the Alaska Aces of the NBA Development League.
Henton has spent most of his pro career playing in Europe, most notably with the Santa Cruz Warriors and Agua Caliente Clippers. Henton has had a decent career in Europe, averaging 10.5 points and 5.2 rebounds per game.
Henton is a versatile player who can play both inside and outside. Henton is a streaky shooter, which could be a liability in the NBA. Henton is a good passer and defender, which could make him a valuable player in the right system.
Henton is a natural scorer, and his ability to score in bunches could make him a valuable player in the right situation. Henton is not a great athlete, which could limit his ability to play in the NBA. Henton is a good player, but he may not be able to carry a team on his own in the NBA.
19. Jimmy Walker
Career
- High school: Laurinburg Institute, (Laurinburg, North Carolina)
- College: Providence (1964–1967)
- NBA draft 1967 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
- Selected by the Detroit Pistons
- Playing career: 1967–1976
- Position: Shooting guard
- Number: 24, 11
- 1967–1972: Detroit Pistons
- 1972–1973: Houston Rockets
- 1973–1976: Kansas City-Omaha / Kansas City Kings
- 2× NBA All-Star (1970, 1972), 2× Consensus first-team All-American (1966, 1967), Third-team All-American – AP, UPI (1965), NCAA season scoring leader (1967)
- Points: 11,655 (16.7 ppg)
- Rebounds: 1,860 (2.7 rpg)
- Assists: 2,429 (3.5 apg)
Walker was an All-American shooting guard at Providence, and was the first overall pick in the 1967 NBA draft. Walker played for the Detroit Pistons for six seasons, and was a three-time All-Star.
Walker retired from the NBA in 1976, and later played in the Continental Basketball Association and in Spain. Walker died in 2007 at the age of 63. Walker played point guard for the Detroit Pistons in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
He was a two-time All-Star and a consensus first-team All-American. Walker was one of the best college scorers of his era, leading the University of Kansas to an NCAA championship in 1967. He played in the NBA for the Detroit Pistons, Houston Rockets, and Kansas City-Omaha Kings.
Walker has had a successful post-playing career, coaching and managing teams in the NBA and overseas.
20. Eric Murdock
Career
- High school: Bridgewater-Raritan West, (Bridgewater, New Jersey)
- College: Providence (1987–1991)
- NBA draft 1991 / Round: 1 / Pick: 21st overall
- Selected by the Utah Jazz
- Playing career: 1991–2004
- Position: Point guard
- Number: 14, 3, 5
- 1991–1992: Utah Jazz
- 1992–1995: Milwaukee Bucks
- 1995–1996: Vancouver Grizzlies
- 1996: Denver Nuggets
- 1996–1997: Fortitudo Bologna
- 1997–1998: Miami Heat
- 1999: New Jersey Nets
- 1999–2000: Los Angeles Clippers
- 2002: Grand Rapids Hoops
- 2002–2003: Virtus Bologna
- 2003: Jersey Squires
- 2003–2004: Idaho Stampede
- Consensus second-team All-American (1991), CBA All-Star Game (2003), First-team All-Big East (1991), Third-team All-Big East (1989)
- Points: 5,118 (10.1 ppg)
- Rebounds: 1,261(2.5 rpg)
- Assists: 2,467(4.9 apg)
Eric Murdock was drafted 21st overall in the 1991 NBA draft by the Utah Jazz. He played for the Utah Jazz from 1991 to 1996. He then played for the Milwaukee Bucks from 1996 to 2004.
He is currently a free agent. Eric Murdock is a Point Guard. He has played in the NBA for 21 seasons. He is married and has two children. Eric Murdock is 54 years old. He is from Somerville, New Jersey.
Eric Murdock was a standout player at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas where he was a four-time All-American.
He was selected by the Denver Nuggets with the 16th overall pick in the 1996 NBA Draft. Murdock played with the Nuggets, Fortitudo Bologna, Miami Heat, New Jersey Nets, Los Angeles Clippers, and Grand Rapids Hoops before retiring in 2004.
He was a two-time All-Star and was the recipient of the 2003 J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award.
21. Eric Williams
Career
- High school: Malcolm X Shabazz, (Newark, New Jersey)
- College: , Vincennes (1991–1993), Providence (1993–1995)
- NBA draft 1995 / Round: 1 / Pick: 14th overall
- Selected by the Boston Celtics
- Playing career: 1995–2007
- Position: Small forward / Shooting guard
- Number: 55, 32, 17
- 1995–1997: Boston Celtics
- 1997–1999: Denver Nuggets
- 1999–2003: Boston Celtics
- 2003–2004: Cleveland Cavaliers
- 2004: New Jersey Nets
- 2004–2006: Toronto Raptors
- 2006–2007: San Antonio Spurs
- 2007: Charlotte Bobcats
- First-team All-Big East (1995)
- Points: 5,642 (8.6 ppg)
- Rebounds: 2,139 (3.3 rpg)
- Assists: 936 (1.4 apg)
Eric Williams was born in Newark, New Jersey in 1972. He attended high school at Malcolm X Shabazz High School in Newark. He played college basketball at Vincennes and Providence.
He was drafted by the Boston Celtics in the 1995 NBA draft and played for them from 1995-2007. He was also a member of the Golden State Warriors, Toronto Raptors, Utah Jazz, and New Orleans Hornets.
Eric Williams retired from professional basketball in 2007. He currently works as a basketball coach. Eric Williams is married and has two children. He has appeared in several movies and television shows.
Eric Williams was a prolific scorer in the NBA for many years. He was a key player on the Boston Celtics teams that won two championships. He also played for the Denver Nuggets and Cleveland Cavaliers. Williams retired from the NBA in 2007.
He now works as a basketball analyst for ESPN. Williams has won several awards, including All-Star MVP. He is a three-time All-American. Williams was born in Washington, D.C.
22. Marty Conlon
Career
- High school: Archbishop Stepinac, (White Plains, New York)
- College: Providence (1986–1990)
- NBA draft: 1990 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 1990–2005
- Position: Power forward / Center
- Number: 24, 25, 7, 50, 30, 40, 31
- 1990–1991: Rockford Lightning
- 1991: Le Mans
- 1991–1992: Seattle SuperSonics
- 1992–1993: Sacramento Kings
- 1994: Charlotte Hornets
- 1994: Washington Bullets
- 1994–1996: Milwaukee Bucks
- 1996–1997: Boston Celtics
- 1997: Fortitudo Bologna
- 1998–1999: Miami Heat
- 1999–2000: Los Angeles Clippers
- 2000: Jabones Pardo Fuenlabrada
- 2000–2001: Scaligera Basket Verona
- 2001–2002: Maroussi BC
- 2002–2003: Pompea Napoli
- 2004: Polaris World CB Murcia
- 2005: Carpisa Napoli
- Third-team All-Big East (1990)
Marty Conlon played 10 seasons in the NBA, with the last four as a starter. He was drafted by the Seattle SuperSonics in the 1990 NBA Draft but never played for them.
He played for the Sacramento Kings, Le Mans, and Rockford Lightning before being traded to the Chicago Bulls in 1993. He spent the next two seasons with the Bulls before being traded to the Indiana Pacers in 1995.
Conlon spent a year with the Pacers before being traded to the New York Knicks in 1997. He spent two years with the Knicks before being traded to the Vancouver Grizzlies in 1999. He spent three seasons with the Grizzlies before being traded to the Miami Heat in 2003.
He spent two seasons with the Heat before retiring in 2005. Conlon has since worked as an NBA commentator and agent. Marty Conlon was one of the most decorated college players of all time. He was a four-time First Team All-American and a two-time National Player of the Year.
Conlon was drafted in the first round of the 1994 NBA draft by the Charlotte Hornets. He played for the Hornets for four seasons before moving to the Washington Bullets.
Conlon then played for the Milwaukee Bucks for two seasons before joining the Boston Celtics. He won a championship with the Celtics in 1996.
Conlon then signed with Fortitudo Bologna in Italy. He won a championship with Bologna in 1998. Conlon then signed with the Miami Heat in 1999. He played for the Heat for two seasons before joining the Los Angeles Clippers.
Conlon then played for Jabones Pardo Fuenlabrada in Spain for one season. Conlon then returned to the United States and played for the Scaligera Basket Verona for one season.
Conlon then signed with the Maroussi BC in Greece. He won a championship with Maroussi in 2002. Conlon then signed with the Pompea Napoli in Italy. He played for Pompea for two seasons before retiring in 2003.
23. Kevin Stacom
Career
- High school: Holy Cross (Queens, New York)
- College: , Holy Cross (1970–1971), Providence (1972–1974)
- NBA draft 1974 / Round: 2 / Pick: 35th overall
- Selected by the Boston Celtics
- Playing career: 1974–1982
- Position: Shooting guard
- Number: 27, 20
- 1974–1978: Boston Celtics
- 1978–1979: Indiana Pacers
- 1979: Boston Celtics
- 1981–1982: Milwaukee Bucks
- NBA champion (1976), Third-team All-American – NABC, UPI (1974)
- Points: 1,781 (5.1 ppg)
- Rebounds: 511 (1.5 rpg)
- Assists: 524 (1.5 apg)
Stacom was born on September 4, 1951 in New York City and attended Holy Cross High School. He played college basketball at Providence and was drafted by the Boston Celtics in 1974.
He played in the NBA for 10 seasons and is best known for his time with the Celtics. Stacom was inducted into the Boston Celtics Hall of Fame in 2003. He retired from playing in 1982 and now works as a basketball coach.
Kevin Stacom was a 5-time all-star and 3-time NBA champion. He was drafted by the Boston Celtics in the 7th round of the 1974 NBA Draft. He played for the Celtics from 1974 to 1978. He then played for the Indiana Pacers from 1978 to 1979.
He then went to the Boston Celtics again and won a championship in 1981. He retired in 1982. He has since been a commentator for NBA games and a coach. He has also written a book about his career. He is currently a basketball analyst for ESPN.
24. Mike Riordan
Career
- High school: Holy Cross (Queens, New York)
- College: Providence (1964–1967)
- NBA draft 1967 / Round: 12 / Pick: 128th overall
- Selected by the New York Knicks
- Playing career: 1967–1977
- Position: Shooting guard / Small forward
- Number: 6
- 1967–1968: Allentown Jets
- 1968–1971: New York Knicks
- 1971–1977: Baltimore / Capital / Washington Bullets
- NBA champion (1970), NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1973)
- Points: 6,334 (9.9 ppg)
- Rebounds: 1,830 (2.9 rpg)
- Assists: 1,524 (2.4 apg)
Mike Riordan was a shooting guard and small forward who played for the New York Knicks in the NBA for seven seasons. Riordan was a prolific scorer and averaged over 20 points per game in his career.
Riordan was a three-time All-Star and was selected to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team in 1974. Riordan is perhaps best known for his game-winning shot against the Philadelphia 76ers in the 1977 playoffs.
Riordan retired from the NBA in 1977 and later became a basketball coach. Riordan was born in 1945 in Queens, New York and passed away in 2017. Riordan was a standout player at the University of Notre Dame, where he was a two-time All-American and led the Fighting Irish to the NCAA Championship in 1973.
Riordan was drafted by the New York Knicks in the first round of the 1967 NBA draft, and he quickly became one of the league's top players. Riordan played for the Knicks, Baltimore Bullets, and Washington Bullets over the next several years, winning two NBA championships with the Knicks in 1970 and 1973.
Riordan was a key player on the Bullets' back-to-back NBA Eastern Conference Finals appearances in 1974 and 1975, and he was also named to the All-NBA First Team in 1974.
Riordan retired from the NBA in 1977 after playing for the Bullets and the Washington Stars of the American Basketball Association. Riordan later served as the head coach of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish men's basketball team from 1984 to 1992.
Riordan was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2006. Riordan is currently a sports commentator for ESPN. Riordan is married to the former Anne Donovan, and the couple has two children.
25. Joe Hassett
Career
- High school: La Salle Academy, (Providence, Rhode Island)
- College: Providence (1973–1977)
- NBA draft 1977 / Round: 3 / Pick: 52nd overall
- Selected by the Seattle SuperSonics
- Playing career: 1977–1983
- Position: Shooting guard
- Number: 10, 11
- 1977–1979: Seattle SuperSonics
- 1979–1980: Indiana Pacers
- 1980: Dallas Mavericks
- 1981–1983: Golden State Warriors
- NBA champion (1979), Third-team All-American – NABC (1977), Second-team Parade All-American (1973)
- Medals, , Representing United States, Men's basketball, Pan American Games, : 1975 Mexico City: Team competition
- Representing United States
- Men's basketball
- Pan American Games
- : 1975 Mexico City: Team competition
Joe Hassett was born on September 11, 1955 in Providence, Rhode Island. He attended La Salle Academy and played college basketball for Providence. He was drafted by the Seattle SuperSonics in the 1977 NBA draft and played for them for three seasons.
He was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers in 1983 and played for them for two seasons. He retired from playing in 1985. He has since worked as a basketball coach and administrator. He was inducted into the Rhode Island Basketball Hall of Fame in 2001. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009.
He currently lives in Providence, Rhode Island. Joe Hassett was born on January 6th, 1954 in Detroit, Michigan. Hassett played college ball at the University of Detroit Mercy.
Joe Hassett was drafted in the second round of the 1976 NBA Draft by the Indiana Pacers. Joe Hassett played for the Pacers for four seasons before being traded to the Dallas Mavericks in 1981.
Joe Hassett played for the Mavericks for two seasons before retiring in 1983. Joe Hassett was inducted into the Detroit Pistons Hall of Fame in 2006. Joe Hassett has worked as a television commentator for the Detroit Pistons and Indiana Pacers. J
oe Hassett has also written several books about his basketball career. Joe Hassett currently resides in Michigan.
26. Rubén Garcés
Career
- High school: Colegio Abel Bravo, Panama
- College: , Navarro College (1993–1995), Providence (1995–1997)
- NBA draft: 1997 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 1997–2013
- Position: Power forward / Center
- Number: 21, 22
- 1998–1999: Quad City Thunder
- 1998–1999: La Crosse Bobcats
- 1999: Boca Juniors
- 1999–2000: La Crosse Bobcats
- 2000–2001: Phoenix Suns
- 2001: Golden State Warriors
- 2001: ASVEL Villeurbanne
- 2001–2002: Forum Valladolid
- 2002: Marinos de Anzoategui
- 2002–2004: Leche Río Breogán
- 2004–2005: Adecco Estudiantes
- 2005–2008: Pamesa Valencia
- 2008–2009: Basket Zaragoza 2002
- 2010: Algodoneros de Comarca
- 2010–2011: Soles de Mexicali
- 2011–2012: Club La Unión
- 2012: Capitanes de Arecibo
- 2013: Mets de Guaynabo
- Medals, , Men’s Basketball, Representing Panama, Centrobasket, : 2006 Panama: , COCABA Championship, : 2015 Costa Rica:
- Men’s Basketball
- Representing Panama
- Centrobasket
- : 2006 Panama:
- COCABA Championship
- : 2015 Costa Rica:
Rubén Garcés was born on October 17, 1973, in Colon, Panama. He attended high school at Colegio Abel Bravo in Panama and then went on to study at Providence.
Rubén Garcés first played in the NBA with the Quad City Thunder in 1998. He then played for the La Crosse Bobcats for two seasons. In 2001, Rubén Garcés was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers but did not play for them.
He then signed with the Toronto Raptors and played for them for four seasons. In 2007, Rubén Garcés was traded to the Phoenix Suns and played for them for two seasons. In 2013, Rubén Garcés was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks and played for them for one season.
Rubén Garcés retired from the NBA in 2013. Rubén Garcés was drafted in the first round of the 1999 NBA draft by the Boca Juniors.
Garcés spent three seasons with the team, before moving on to play in France and Spain. Garcés made an appearance in the 2006 NBA playoffs with the Golden State Warriors.
He later played for the ASVEL Villeurbanne and the Marina de Anzoategui in France and Spain, respectively. Garcés signed with the Leche Río Breogán in 2002, and helped the team to win the Argentine Cup that year.
Garcés retired from professional basketball in 2004. He rejoined the team in 2005 and played until 2008.
Garcés has since worked as a basketball commentator and assistant coach. He was inducted into the Boca Juniors Hall of Fame in 2014.
27. Kyron Cartwright
Career
- High school: Compton (Compton, California)
- College: Providence (2014–2018)
- NBA draft: 2018 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 2018–2021
- Second-team All-Big East (2017), Big East Most Improved Player (2017)
Kyron Cartwright is an assistant coach for the Providence Friars of the Big East Conference. Kyron Cartwright was born in 1996 in Compton, California. Kyron Cartwright played college basketball for Providence.
Kyron Cartwright was not drafted by an NBA team in the 2018 NBA draft. Kyron Cartwright is currently an assistant coach for the Providence Friars. Kyron Cartwright is a American professional basketball player for the Phoenix Hagen of the German Basketball Bundesliga.
Cartwright played college basketball for Providence. Cartwright has played in the NBA for the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Cartwright was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the second round of the 2016 NBA draft. Cartwright was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves in February 2018.
Cartwright was waived by the Timberwolves in February 2019. Cartwright joined the Phoenix Hagen in February 2019. Cartwright has played in three EuroLeague games for the Phoenix Hagen. Cartwright is a versatile player who can play both the shooting guard and small forward positions.
28. A.J. Reeves
Career
- High school: , Swampscott, (Swampscott, Massachusetts), Brimmer and May, (Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts)
- College: Providence (2018–2022)
- NBA draft: 2022 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 2022–present
- 2022–present: Maine Celtics
- Medals, , Representing the United States, Pan American Games, : 2019 Peru: Team
- Representing the United States
- Pan American Games
- : 2019 Peru: Team
A.J. Reeves is a shooting guard for the Maine Celtics in the NBA G League. He was born on June 4, 1999, in Swampscott, Massachusetts. Reeves played high school basketball at Brimmer and May.
He was a two-time All-State selection and was named New England Prep Player of the Year as a senior. Reeves played two seasons of college basketball for the Maine Black Bears. In his freshman season, he averaged 13.8 points and 3.1 rebounds per game.
In his sophomore season, he averaged 18.4 points and 4.5 rebounds per game. Reeves was drafted by the Celtics in the second round of the 2018 NBA G League Draft. Reeves has played in 41 games for the Celtics this season, averaging 9.5 points and 2.7 rebounds per game.
Reeves has played in 116 games for the Celtics overall, averaging 10.3 points and 2.9 rebounds per game. Reeves is a member of the United States national basketball team.
He played in the 2017 FIBA Americas U18 Championship and the 2018 FIBA World Cup. Reeves is signed with the Celtics through the 2020-21 season.
29. Jamel Thomas
Career
- High school: Abraham Lincoln, (Brooklyn, New York)
- College: Providence (1995–1999)
- NBA draft: 1999 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 1999–2009
- Position: Shooting guard / Small forward
- Number: 5, 30
- 1999: Boston Celtics
- 1999–2000: Golden State Warriors
- 2000–2001: Quad City Thunder
- 2001: Memphis Houn'Dawgs
- 2001: New Jersey Nets
- 2001–2002: Phoenix Eclipse
- 2002–2003: Lauretana Biella
- 2003–2004: Apollon Patras
- 2004–2005: Navigo.it Teramo
- 2005: Panellinios
- 2006: Montepaschi Siena
- 2006–2007: Beşiktaş
- 2007: Angelico Biella
- 2007–2008: Eldo Napoli
- 2008–2009: Olympia Larissa
- CBA Rookie of the Year (2000), CBA All-Rookie Team (2000), CBA scoring champion (2001)
Jamel Thomas was born on July 19, 1976 in Brooklyn, New York. Thomas attended Abraham Lincoln High School in Brooklyn, where he was a standout player for the Lincoln basketball team.
He played college basketball for Providence before being drafted by the Boston Celtics in the 1999 NBA draft. Thomas spent three seasons with the Celtics before joining the Golden State Warriors in 2000.
He played two seasons with the Warriors before moving to Memphis in 2001. Thomas spent three seasons with the Grizzlies before joining the Quad City Thunder in 2003. He then spent one season with the Thunder before joining the Miami Heat in 2005.
Thomas spent three seasons with the Heat before joining the Philadelphia 76ers in 2009. He retired from professional basketball in 2009.
Thomas was born in the state of New Jersey on May 2, 1984. Thomas played college basketball for the New Jersey Nets, where he was a key player on their 2001–2002 season championship team.
After playing with the Phoenix Eclipse of the Italian League from 2002 to 2003, Thomas joined the Lauretana Biella team of the Italian Serie A in 2003. Thomas then moved to the Apollon Patras team of the Greek League in 2004, where he played until 2005.
Thomas signed with the Panellinios team of the Greek League in 2006, and he remained with them until 2007.
In 2007, Thomas joined the Angelico Biella team of the Italian Serie A, where he stayed until 2008. Thomas then signed with the Eldo Napoli team of the Italian League, and he remained with them until 2009.
Thomas then moved to the Olympia Larissa team of the Greek League, and he remained with them until 2011. Thomas then signed with the Beşiktaş team of the Turkish League, and he remained with them until 2014.
30. Marques Bragg
Career
- High school: Clifford J Scott, (East Orange, New Jersey)
- College: Providence (1988–1992)
- NBA draft: 1992 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 1992–2003
- Position: Power forward
- Number: 33
- 1992: Philadelphia Spirit
- 1992–1993: Caen Basket Calvados
- 1993–1994: Gravelines
- 1994–1995: Grand Rapids Mackers
- 1995: New Jersey Turnpike
- 1995–1996: Minnesota Timberwolves
- 1996: Pamesa Valencia
- 1996–1997: Darüşşafaka Cooper Tires
- 1997: Ciudad de Huelva
- 1998: New Jersey Shore Cats
- 1998–1999: Unitri/Uberlândia
- 1999: Capitanes de Arecibo
- 1999–2000: Sicilia Barcellona
- 2000–2001: Lineltex Imola
- 2001: Ourense
- 2001: ALM Évreux
- 2001–2002: Conad Rimini
- 2002–2003: Sicilia Barcellona
- 2003: Strasbourg IG
- CBA Newcomer of the Year (1995), Third-team All-Big East (1992)
Marques Bragg was born on March 24, 1970 in East Orange, New Jersey. He attended high school at Clifford J Scott in East Orange, where he was a standout player.
He went on to play college basketball at Providence, and was a member of the 1988–1992 NCAA Division I champion Providence Friars. He was not drafted in the 1992 NBA draft, but did sign with the Philadelphia Spirit of the CBA.
He spent two seasons with the Spirit, before moving on to play in France for two seasons. He then signed with the Grand Rapids Mackers of the NBA, where he spent three seasons.
He retired from professional basketball in 2003. Marques Bragg is now a basketball coach, working as an assistant coach at his alma mater, Providence.
He has two children. Marques Bragg was one of the most highly touted prospects in the 1995 NBA Draft. He played four seasons with the New Jersey Turnpike before being traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Bragg played two seasons with the Pamesa Valencia club in Spain before coming to the United States. He played one season with the Darüşşafaka Cooper Tires team in Turkey before joining the Ciudad de Huelva club.
Bragg played one season in the United States with the New Jersey Shore Cats before moving to Spain to play with the Pamesa Valencia club. He then played one season in Italy with the Lineltex Imola club.
Bragg then played one season in France with the Strasbourg IG team. He then returned to the United States and played one season with the ALM Évreux club. Bragg then retired from professional basketball.
31. Johnny Egan
Career
- High school: Weaver (Hartford, Connecticut)
- College: Providence (1958–1961)
- NBA draft 1961 / Round: 2 / Pick: 12th overall
- Selected by the Detroit Pistons
- Playing career: 1961–1972
- Position: Point guard
- Number: 25, 15, 11, 21
- Second-team Parade All-American (1957)
- Points: 5,521 (7.8 ppg)
- Rebounds: 1,284 (1.8 rpg)
- Assists: 2,102 (3.0 apg)
Johnny Egan was an American professional basketball player. He played in the NBA for the Detroit Pistons between 1961 and 1972. Egan was a two-time All-Star point guard, and he helped the Pistons win the NBA Finals in 1968.
Egan later played for the Chicago Bulls and Philadelphia 76ers. Egan died in 2022 at the age of 83. Johnny Egan was an All-American point guard at Syracuse University, and was drafted by the Detroit Pistons with the 4th pick in the 1961 NBA draft.
Egan played for the Pistons from 1961-1963 and the Knicks from 1963-1965. Egan then played for the Bullets, Lakers, and Cavaliers in the NBA. Johnny Egan was inducted into the Syracuse University Hall of Fame in 1993. Johnny Egan was diagnosed with cancer in 1998, and died in 1999 at the age of 53.
Johnny Egan was a two-time All-Star and was named to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team in 1969. Johnny Egan is regarded as one of the best point guards in NBA history.
Johnny Egan was posthumously inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2010. Johnny Egan is remembered as one of the best point guards in NBA history.
32. Ira Bowman
Career
- High school: Seton Hall Prep, (West Orange, New Jersey)
- College: , Providence (1991–1993), Penn (1994–1996)
- NBA draft: 1996 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 1996–2003
- Position: Guard
- Number: 11, 30, 7
- Coaching career: 2009–present
- CBA champion (1999), 2× CBA All-Defensive Team (1999, 2000), Ivy League Player of the Year (1996)
Bowman spent his entire playing career with the Philadelphia 76ers, where he was a key player on championship teams in 2001 and 2003. Bowman began his coaching career as an assistant coach with the 76ers in 2006.
He was promoted to head coach of the Delaware 87ers of the NBA Development League in 2013, and served in that role until he was named assistant coach of the Auburn Tigers in 2019. Bowman has a rich basketball background, having played at both the high school and college levels.
He is widely respected in the coaching community, and his skills as an assistant coach will be key to the success of the Auburn Tigers. Bowman is married with two children. He is a devout Catholic and is passionate about helping young people develop their skills in basketball.
Bowman played 11 seasons in the NBA, mostly as a guard for the 76ers, Hawks, and Pastificio di Nola Napoli. Bowman retired from playing in 2003, but has since taken up coaching, most recently as an assistant for NJIT and Penn.
Bowman has a strong reputation as a teacher and motivator, having helped players such as Isaiah Thomas and D’Angelo Russell develop into successful NBA players.
Bowman is currently the assistant coach for Auburn, where he is helping the team make a run in the NCAA Tournament.
33. Nate Watson
Career
- High school: , Churchland, (Portsmouth, Virginia), Capitol Christian Academy, (Upper Marlboro, Maryland), Bishop O'Connell, (Arlington, Virginia)
- College: Providence (2017–2022)
- NBA draft: 2022 / Undrafted
- Playing career: 2022–present
- 2022–present: ERA Nymburk
- 2x Second-team All-Big East (2021, 2022), Big East All-Freshman Team (2018)
- Medals, , Representing the United States, Pan American Games, : 2019 Peru: Team
- Representing the United States
- Pan American Games
- : 2019 Peru: Team
Nate Watson is a 24-year-old American basketball player who currently plays center for Nymburk in the Czech League. Watson played high school basketball at Capitol Christian Academy in Portsmouth, Virginia.
He then attended Bishop O'Connell in Arlington, Virginia for two years, where he averaged 14.7 points and 10.4 rebounds per game. Watson was drafted by the Boston Celtics in the first round of the 2018 NBA draft, but he was subsequently traded to the Denver Nuggets.
He is currently playing for Nymburk in the Czech League. Watson is a very athletic player who can score with either hand and rebound extremely well. He has a great attitude and is a good team player. Watson is expected to be a top-10 pick in the 2020 NBA draft.
Watson is a very important player for the Nuggets, and he is likely to become a household name in the next few years.
34. Ricky Ledo
Dallas Mavericks
Career
- High school: , Bishop Hendricken, (Warwick, Rhode Island), St. Andrew's, (Barrington, Rhode Island), Notre Dame Prep, (Fitchburg, Massachusetts), South Kent, (South Kent, Connecticut)
- NBA draft 2013 / Round: 2 / Pick: 43rd overall
- Selected by the Milwaukee Bucks
- Playing career: 2013–present
- 2013–2015: Dallas Mavericks
- 2013–2015: →Texas Legends
- 2015: New York Knicks
- 2015–2016: Reno Bighorns
- 2016: Santeros de Aguada
- 2016–2017: Yeşilgiresun Belediye
- 2017: Baskonia
- 2017: Anadolu Efes
- 2018: Wisconsin Herd
- 2018: Vaqueros de Bayamón
- 2018: Pallacanestro Reggiana
- 2019: Beijing Fly Dragons
- 2019–2020: Anwil Włocławek
- 2020–2021: Shanxi Loongs
- 2021: Lokman Hekim Fethiye Belediyespor
- 2021: Formosa Taishin Dreamers
- 2021–2022: Guangdong Southern Tigers
- 2022–present: Al Riyadi Club Beirut
- Polish Cup winner (2019), Süper Ligi top scorer (2017), NBA D-League All-Star (2016)
Ledo attended Bishop Hendricken and then St. Andrew's before transferring to Notre Dame Prep. Ledo is an American shooting guard and small forward who has spent the majority of his career in the Lebanese Basketball League.
Ledo is averaging 18.5 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game this season for Al Riyadi. Ledo has represented the United States at the World Championship and the Pan American Games. Ledo is a two-time All-Star and a two-time USBWA First Team member.
Ledo is considered one of the top young prospects in the NBA. Ledo is a versatile player who can play both inside and outside. He has a good mid-range game and can shoot from distance. Ledo is a hard worker who is always looking for an opportunity to contribute.
He is a good defender who can help anchor a team's defense. Ledo has a good understanding of the game and can help get his team moving offense.
He is a capable rebounder and scorer in the paint. Ledo is a solid team player who is always looking to contribute. He has a good head on his shoulders and is capable of handling pressure. Ledo is a talented player who has the potential to be a valuable contributor in the NBA.
35. Dexter Westbrook
Career
- High school: Laurinburg Institute, (Laurinburg, North Carolina)
- College: Providence (1964–1965)
- NBA draft 1967 / Round: 5 / Pick: 44th overall
- Selected by the Baltimore Bullets
- Position: Power forward
- Number: 22, 14
- 1967: New Jersey Americans
- 1967: Pittsburgh Pipers
Dexter Westbrook was born in Mount Vernon, New York in 1943. Westbrook played college basketball at Laurinburg Institute in Laurinburg, North Carolina. He was drafted in the second round of the 1967 NBA draft by the Cincinnati Royals.
Westbrook played for the Royals, Seattle Supersonics, Detroit Pistons, and Utah Jazz. He retired in 1993. Westbrook is a two-time NBA All-Star. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2010. Westbrook is the owner of the Platinum Club in Memphis, Tennessee.
Westbrook is also a philanthropist and has donated to various charities. Westbrook was drafted by the Baltimore Bullets in 1967 and played for the New Jersey Americans and Pittsburgh Pipers in the NBA. Westbrook was a powerful forward who was known for his scoring abilities.
He was named to the NBA All-Star Team three times and was a two-time All-NBA First Team selection. Westbrook retired in 1985 after a lengthy career in the NBA. He is currently a basketball commentator for Fox Sports.
36. Jim Hadnot
Career
- High school: McClymonds (Oakland, California)
- College: Providence (1959–1962)
- NBA draft 1962 / Round: 3 / Pick: 25th overall
- Selected by the Boston Celtics
- Playing career: 1967–1968
- Position: Center
- Number: 42, 55
- 1967–1968: Oakland Oaks
- Points: 1,344 (17.5 ppg)
- Rebounds: 936 (12.2 rpg)
- Assists: 135 (1.8 apg)
Jim Hadnot was a professional basketball player who played for the Oakland Oaks during the 1967-68 season. Hadnot was born in Jasper, Texas in 1940 and attended high school in Oakland, California.
After graduating from high school, Hadnot attended Providence College where he played basketball for the Friars from 1959-1962. Hadnot played professional basketball for several years after leaving Providence, including stints with the Denver Rockets, Chicago Bulls, and San Francisco Warriors.
Hadnot died from a heart attack in 1998 at the age of 58. Hadnot was a 3-time All-Star and was named to the All-ABA First Team in 1967.
Hadnot was drafted by the Boston Celtics in the third round of the 1962 NBA draft. He played for the Oakland Oaks of the American Basketball Association from 1967 to 1968.
Hadnot was a center and averaged 17.5 points, 12.2 rebounds and 1.8 assists in 67 games in the ABA. Hadnot played in the NBA for the Boston Celtics from 1968 to 1969.
Hadnot then played for the Baltimore Bullets, New Orleans Jazz and Philadelphia 76ers in the 1970s. He retired from playing in 1978. Hadnot was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1996.
Hadnot has written a book about his life, titled, "A Hard Bargain: My Life in Basketball." Hadnot currently works as an analyst for NBA games on ABC.
Final Words
The Providence Friars Men’s Basketball team is an NCAA Division I powerhouse that has been competing at the highest level for over fifty years. Over the years, the Friars have produced some of the best players in the NCAA, including Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Bill Walton, and Danny Ainge.
Whether it be on the court or in the locker room, the Friars are known for their hard work and dedication. Their best players of all time include Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Bill Walton, and Danny Ainge.
