Full Breakdown
Duncan Powell Suspended for Three Games Following Fight in Providence-St. John's Game
2/17/2026, 3:59:07 AM
Incident Overview
Providence College forward Duncan Powell has been suspended for three games following a fight that erupted during a basketball game against St. John's on February 14, 2026. The incident occurred in the second half of the game, which ended in a 79-69 victory for St. John's. Powell was ejected after committing a flagrant 2 foul on St. John's guard Bryce Hopkins, who was attempting a fast-break layup. The foul, deemed excessively aggressive, ignited a brawl involving players from both teams.
Details of the Suspension
The Big East Conference announced the suspension on February 15, 2026, which includes an automatic one-game ban mandated by NCAA rules for fighting, in addition to two games imposed by the conference for Powell's "combative actions" during the incident. The Big East stated that video review confirmed Powell engaged in actions that constituted a fighting act after the initial foul. Powell will miss upcoming games against DePaul on February 21, Xavier on February 24, and Creighton on February 28.
Game Context
At the time of the incident, Providence had just taken a narrow lead of 40-39 after trailing by as many as 13 points earlier in the game. Following Powell's ejection, St. John's capitalized on the disruption, launching an 8-0 run that helped secure their victory. The game was halted for nearly 20 minutes as officials sorted out the penalties, resulting in a total of six ejections: Powell and teammate Jaylin Sellers from Providence, and four players from St. John's—Dillon Mitchell, Kelvin Odih, Ruben Prey, and Sadiku Ibine Ayo.
Official Statements
Providence Athletic Director Steve Napolillo expressed support for the Big East's decision, stating, "His actions were unacceptable and do not reflect the values, discipline, or sportsmanship expected of anyone representing Providence College." This sentiment underscores the institution's commitment to maintaining sportsmanship standards among its athletes.
Criticism & Opposition
The incident drew criticism from various quarters, particularly regarding the nature of Powell's foul. St. John's head coach Rick Pitino remarked on the hostile environment during the game, noting that the crowd's behavior towards Hopkins, a former Providence player, detracted from the spirit of competition. He stated, "The crowd...lost objectivity on what they’re here for," highlighting the tensions surrounding Hopkins' return to Providence.
What's Next
Duncan Powell is set to return to the court for the final two games of the regular season and the Big East Tournament, assuming no further disciplinary actions are taken. Meanwhile, Providence's current season record stands at 11-15, with the team facing challenges as they navigate the remainder of their schedule without Powell.
Verbatim Quotes
- “After the on-court video review, game officials determined that Powell engaged in additional combative actions that constituted a fighting act subsequent to the flagrant foul.” — Big East Conference Statement
- “We fully support the suspension that the BIG EAST has issued to Duncan Powell. His actions were unacceptable and do not reflect the values, discipline, or sportsmanship expected of anyone representing Providence College.” — Steve Napolillo, Providence Athletic Director
