Providence Basketball Star Arrested After Alleged Domestic Threats

Duncan Powell faces charges in two separate incidents involving an ex-girlfriend

Mar. 30, 2026 at 6:53am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a cracked smartphone screen reflecting a faint red light, conceptually illustrating the aftermath of a violent domestic incident.A shattered smartphone screen reflects the emotional aftermath of an alleged domestic violence incident involving a high-profile college basketball player.Cranston Today

Providence College basketball standout Duncan Powell was arrested Sunday on multiple domestic violence charges tied to two separate incidents involving an ex-girlfriend. Authorities allege Powell made numerous phone calls to his ex-girlfriend, threatening to kill her, himself, and others at a residence. The arrest comes after Powell faced disciplinary issues earlier this season, including a suspension for an on-court altercation.

Why it matters

Domestic violence allegations against high-profile student-athletes raise concerns about accountability and campus culture, especially at a time when Powell was already facing disciplinary issues. The case also highlights the broader problem of intimate partner violence in college sports.

The details

In the first incident in Cranston, Rhode Island, witnesses described a chaotic scene in which Powell allegedly showed up at his ex-girlfriend's home and repeatedly hammered on the door for several minutes while appearing to hide an unknown object in his sweatshirt pocket. Hours later, Powell turned himself in to the Providence Police Department, where he was charged with domestic assault.

  • On Sunday, Powell was arrested on multiple domestic violence charges.
  • In February, Powell was suspended for three games by the Big East following an on-court altercation.

The players

Duncan Powell

A 6-foot-8 graduate student forward on the Providence College basketball team who has faced disciplinary issues throughout the 2025-26 season.

Kim English

The head coach of the Providence College basketball team.

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What’s next

Powell was held overnight pending an arraignment scheduled for Monday morning, where the court will determine if he will be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing issue of domestic violence allegations against high-profile student-athletes and the need for colleges to have robust policies and support systems in place to address these complex situations.