Providence Coach Kim English Reflects on Loss to Creighton
The Providence Friars endured a challenging outing against Creighton, falling short 78-63 in a Big East matchup. Shooting struggles and a significant disparity in three-point scoring defined the game, leaving Providence with a 3-4 record in conference play.
Offensively, the Friars failed to find their rhythm, particularly from beyond the arc. Shooting just 4-for-20 from three-point range, they were significantly outscored by Creighton, who hit 14 three-pointers. This 30-point difference in perimeter scoring proved pivotal as Creighton capitalized on their opportunities while Providence struggled to respond.
Post-game, head coach Kim English addressed the team’s performance and areas of concern. English acknowledged the shooting woes and their impact on the game. “When you’re playing a team as talented as Creighton, you have to make shots,” he explained. The Friars’ inability to do so placed additional pressure on their defense, which struggled to contain Creighton’s dynamic offense.
Providence also faced challenges defensively, particularly in guarding Creighton’s shooters. The Bluejays showcased their offensive firepower, spreading the floor effectively and finding open looks. English emphasized the need for improvement in defensive rotations and communication to better contest shots in future matchups.
Despite the loss, English highlighted some positive takeaways and areas for growth. He praised the team’s effort and resilience but noted that execution remains a key focus. “Our guys played hard, but we have to be better in crucial moments,” English stated. He pointed out that developing consistency on both ends of the court will be essential as the team navigates the remainder of the Big East schedule.
Providence’s offensive struggles extended beyond three-point shooting, as the team faced difficulties generating quality looks overall. English emphasized the importance of ball movement and decision-making to create better scoring opportunities. He also noted that the Friars must find ways to balance their inside-outside game to keep defenses honest.
Looking ahead, English expressed confidence in his team’s ability to bounce back. “This is a learning experience for us,” he said. “We’ll get back to work and focus on what we can control.” With several key games remaining in the conference schedule, English stressed the importance of maintaining a growth mindset and staying committed to the process.
The loss to Creighton marked a setback for the Friars, but English remains optimistic about the team’s potential. He believes that addressing the issues exposed in this game—particularly shooting consistency and defensive discipline—will be critical in achieving long-term success.
As the Friars prepare for their next game, English and his staff will focus on building confidence and refining their approach. While the road ahead presents challenges, Providence remains determined to compete at a high level and improve with each opportunity.
