Providence's Duncan Powell Suspended 3 Games After Flagrant Foul

Incident occurred during heated matchup between Providence and St. John's.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Providence forward Duncan Powell has been suspended for three games by the Big East Conference after his Flagrant 2 foul and subsequent combative actions during a game against St. John's. Game officials determined that Powell engaged in additional fighting acts following the initial flagrant foul on ex-PC star Bryce Hopkins, leading to the suspension.

Why it matters

Suspensions for flagrant fouls and fighting acts are common in college basketball, as leagues aim to maintain sportsmanship and player safety. This incident highlights the heated rivalry between Providence and St. John's, two prominent Big East programs, and the consequences players face for losing their composure on the court.

The details

In the game between Providence and St. John's, a hard foul by Powell on ex-PC star Bryce Hopkins sparked a rash of ejections. After video review, officials determined that Powell's actions went beyond the initial flagrant foul, constituting a fighting act that warranted a three-game suspension.

  • The incident occurred during the Providence-St. John's game on February 15, 2026.

The players

Duncan Powell

A forward for the Providence Friars basketball team.

Bryce Hopkins

A former Providence Friars basketball player who now plays for St. John's.

Rick Pitino

The head coach of the St. John's Red Storm basketball team.

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What’s next

The Big East Conference will determine if any additional disciplinary action is warranted for the incident.

The takeaway

This suspension highlights the importance of maintaining composure and sportsmanship in high-intensity college basketball rivalries, as players face serious consequences for fighting or excessive physical play.