2005 Providence Friars Basketball Preview

2005 Providence Friars Team Preview

The question for the Providence Friars is not will they improve this season but how much worse will they be? Last year the team went 4-12 in the Big East and 14-17 overall and that was with Ryan Gomes, considered to be the best player in the conference. This season Gomes has traveled north to wear the Celtic Green and Providence coach Tim Welsh has no one to replace his former main guy’s 21.6 points and 8.2 rebounds per game.

This year’s starters include one senior, guard Donnie McGrath, two juniors and two sophomores. Freshman and sophomores primarily occupy the bench; however one of those first year players, Geoff McDermott, has speed, strength, and size. McDermott, who had numerous offers to play football, is a versatile player who can turn it on at either guard or forward. He may be able to make a difference on the court right from the beginning.

Junior Dwight Brewington, a highly competitive scorer, threw in 13.3 PPG in 2004-05 and is the Friar’s highest scoring returning player. Brewington caught the injury bug last season; he can be a positive force if he stays healthy. Senior Donnie McGrath may also be an important on-court force, especially with his ability to hit threes (41.1% last season) and foul shooting expertise (93.0% last year).

In 2004-05 center Randall Hanke showed promise as a Big East player, and forward DeSean White, a very fine passer, appeared to be ready to turn up his point production. Improvement inside at center and forward will greatly benefit this team.

Chances are Providence will do little more than they did last season. However if Welsh can incorporate some of his new and untested talent into the game plan, the Friars may find themselves blessed with success. At least fans are praying that’s true.

For more info on the 2005 Friars check out the official Providence athletic site.