Big East Suspends Providence's Powell for 3 Games After Fight

Powell faces additional penalty for actions after flagrant foul in game against St. John's.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The Big East Conference has suspended Providence forward Duncan Powell for three games following a fight-filled game against St. John's. Powell was already facing an automatic one-game ban for fighting, but the conference added two more games to his suspension for his actions after committing a flagrant foul.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the ongoing challenge of maintaining discipline and sportsmanship in college basketball, especially in heated conference matchups. The Big East is taking a strong stance to deter similar outbursts and protect the integrity of the game.

The details

Powell flagrantly fouled Bryce Hopkins, a former Providence player, from behind as he went up for a fast-break layup. Powell was automatically ejected for the flagrant 2 foul. The Big East said in its ruling that officials determined Powell "engaged in additional combative actions that constituted a fighting act subsequent to the flagrant foul."

  • On February 16, 2026, the Big East Conference announced the suspension.
  • Powell will sit out the next three games: February 18 at DePaul, February 24 at home against Xavier, and February 28 at Creighton.

The players

Duncan Powell

A forward for the Providence College basketball team.

Bryce Hopkins

A player who previously spent three seasons at Providence College before transferring.

Steve Napolillo

The athletic director at Providence College.

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What they’re saying

“Providence College holds its student-athletes and coaches to the highest standards. We fully support the suspension that the Big East has issued to Duncan Powell. His actions were unacceptable and do not reflect the values, discipline, or sportsmanship expected of anyone representing Providence College.”

— Steve Napolillo, Athletic Director, Providence College (wbal.com)

What’s next

The Big East will continue to monitor player conduct and take disciplinary action as needed to uphold the conference's standards of sportsmanship.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the importance of maintaining composure and professionalism in high-stakes college basketball games. The Big East's swift and firm response sends a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated, helping to protect the integrity of the sport.