Six Players Ejected After Fight Breaks Out in No. 17 St. John's vs. Providence Game

Fracas resulted from a hard foul by Friars forward Duncan Powell on St. John's star Bryce Hopkins.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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A fight broke out during a basketball game between No. 17 St. John's and Providence, leading to the ejection of six players. The incident started after a hard foul by Friars forward Duncan Powell on St. John's player Bryce Hopkins, which sent Hopkins crashing to the ground. The confrontation then spilled over to the St. John's bench, with players from both teams getting involved in the pushing and shoving. Ultimately, four St. John's players and two Providence players were ejected from the game.

Why it matters

Fights and ejections during college basketball games are rare and concerning, as they can lead to suspensions, damage team chemistry, and raise questions about sportsmanship and player conduct. This incident highlights the intensity of the rivalry between the two teams and the need for better control and discipline on the court.

The details

The fracas occurred in the second half of the game, with Providence holding a one-point lead. Friars forward Duncan Powell fouled St. John's player Bryce Hopkins hard, sending him crashing to the ground. Hopkins then moved toward Powell, but was held back by his former Providence teammate Oswin Erhunmwunse. The confrontation then spilled over to the St. John's bench, with players from both teams getting involved in the pushing and shoving. Referees and coaches tried to break up the fight, but not before four St. John's players and two Providence players were ejected.

  • The incident occurred with 14:25 left in the second half, with Providence holding a 40-39 lead.
  • The game was delayed for nearly 20 minutes while referees sorted out the punishments.

The players

Duncan Powell

Friars forward who committed the hard foul that sparked the fight.

Bryce Hopkins

St. John's star player who was on the receiving end of the hard foul by Powell.

Oswin Erhunmwunse

Providence forward who held back his former teammate Bryce Hopkins after the foul.

Rick Pitino

St. John's head coach who was in the middle of the fracas, trying to hold back his players.

Jaylin Sellers

Providence guard who was led down the tunnel to cheers from the crowd after being ejected.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

This incident highlights the intense rivalry between St. John's and Providence, and the need for better control and discipline on the court during heated matchups. The ejections of multiple players from both teams could have significant consequences, including suspensions, and will likely be a topic of discussion in the college basketball community.