Providence Fans' NSFW Chants Upset Coach Kim English After Brawl

English calls out the crowd's language, saying it doesn't align with the school's Christian values.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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A brawl broke out between the St. John's and Providence basketball teams during a game, leading to multiple player ejections. After the incident, Providence head coach Kim English criticized his team's fans for using NSFW language in their chants, saying it does not align with the school's Christian identity.

Why it matters

Rowdy fan behavior and unsportsmanlike conduct can escalate tensions on the court and detract from the spirit of the game. As a Christian college, Providence faces additional scrutiny around the behavior of its fans and the message it sends about the school's values.

The details

The brawl occurred after a hard foul during the game between St. John's and Providence. Multiple players were ejected as a result. After the incident, Providence head coach Kim English called out his team's fans for using profane and inappropriate language in their chants, saying it does not reflect well on the school, which considers itself a Christian institution.

  • The brawl took place on Saturday, February 14, 2026, during the game between St. John's and Providence.

The players

Kim English

The head coach of the Providence basketball team, who criticized his team's fans for their NSFW chants following a brawl with St. John's.

Rick Pitino

The head coach of the St. John's basketball team, whose squad emerged victorious from the brawl-filled game against Providence.

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What they’re saying

“No, I don't like when anyone is talking about 'F you.' I don't like that. I don't think our college president, our board, would like that. You know, Christian college. We have a great home court. I think it's still great if we did without that.”

— Kim English, Head Coach, Providence Basketball (FOX College Hoops)

What’s next

The Big East conference is expected to review the incident and determine if any additional disciplinary actions are warranted for the players involved in the brawl.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the delicate balance between fostering a passionate fan base and maintaining an environment aligned with a school's values. As a Christian college, Providence must grapple with how to address unsportsmanlike fan behavior while preserving the unique atmosphere that makes The Dunk one of the toughest road environments in college basketball.