Providence Lands G League Star Dink Pate

Pate joins Defensive Player of the Year Miles Byrd on Friars' roster

Apr. 10, 2026 at 4:08am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a basketball player mid-jump shot, with their form broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in a palette of navy, green, and orange, conceptually representing the dynamic energy and skill Pate will bring to the Providence Friars.Pate's dynamic scoring ability will be a key asset for the Friars as they aim to return to the top of the Big East.Providence Today

Providence College and new head coach Bryan Hodgson have landed two major recruits for the upcoming season - G League standout Dink Pate and reigning Mountain West Conference Defensive Player of the Year Miles Byrd.

Why it matters

Pate's commitment to Providence is a significant coup for the Friars, who are looking to rebuild after a down season. Byrd's defensive prowess will provide an immediate boost to the team's backcourt. Together, the two transfers could help elevate Providence back into the national conversation.

The details

Pate, a 6'8" forward, had a breakout season in the G League, averaging 18.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game. His combination of size, skill, and athleticism make him an intriguing pro prospect. Byrd, a 6'4" guard, was a dominant defensive force in the Mountain West, leading the conference in steals and earning Defensive Player of the Year honors.

  • Pate and Byrd committed to Providence on April 9, 2026.

The players

Dink Pate

A 6'8" forward who had a standout season in the G League, averaging 18.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game.

Miles Byrd

A 6'4" guard who was named the Mountain West Conference Defensive Player of the Year after leading the league in steals.

Bryan Hodgson

The new head coach of the Providence Friars, tasked with rebuilding the program after a down season.

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What they’re saying

“Dink and Miles are exactly the type of players we need to get Providence back on the national map. Their talent and experience will be invaluable to our program.”

— Bryan Hodgson, Head Coach, Providence Friars

What’s next

The Friars will look to integrate Pate and Byrd into the lineup as they prepare for the upcoming season, with high hopes of returning to the NCAA Tournament.

The takeaway

Providence's ability to land two high-profile transfers in Pate and Byrd signals a renewed commitment to building a competitive men's basketball program. If the duo can live up to their potential, the Friars could be a team to watch in the 2026-27 season.