Providence basketball player pleads not guilty to charges

Duncan Powell faces domestic assault and disorderly conduct charges after weekend altercation

Mar. 30, 2026 at 9:09pm

An extreme close-up of a crumpled police incident report form, its details obscured by dramatic shadows and highlights from a direct camera flash, conveying a sense of the serious, investigative nature of the alleged crime.A police report form's harsh flash illumination symbolizes the stark investigation into alleged misconduct by a college athlete.Providence Today

Providence basketball player Duncan Powell pleaded not guilty on Monday to domestic assault and disorderly conduct charges stemming from a weekend altercation that started in Providence and continued in the nearby suburb of Cranston.

Why it matters

Allegations of domestic violence and disorderly conduct by high-profile student-athletes can raise concerns about campus culture and accountability, especially at a time when many colleges are working to address issues of sexual misconduct and interpersonal violence.

The details

According to authorities, the charges against Powell stem from an incident that began in Providence and continued in Cranston. No further details about the nature of the altercation or the alleged victim were provided.

  • The alleged incident occurred over the weekend prior to Powell's court appearance on Monday.

The players

Duncan Powell

A basketball player for Providence College.

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What’s next

The judge will determine whether to allow Powell to be released on bail at a future hearing.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges colleges and universities face in addressing allegations of misconduct by student-athletes and ensuring accountability, while also providing appropriate support and due process.