In the third installment of our series, “Way Too Early Big East Contenders vs. Pretenders,” we continue our deep dive into the tumultuous offseason of Big East basketball. Building on our initial explorations and the strategic nuances discussed in Part 2, this article aims to further analyze how the dynamic landscape of the conference will evolve as teams prepare for the upcoming season. With UConn seeking a historic three-peat and other teams aiming to disrupt the established hierarchy, the scene is set for a thrilling showdown. The exit of key players to the NBA Draft, transfer portal, or professional endeavors adds a layer of unpredictability, underscoring the importance of tactical prowess and coaching acumen in shaping team fortunes.
As we navigate through these shifts, this installment focuses on the newly added transfers and incoming freshmen who are poised to inject fresh energy into the Big East. The changes in each team’s roster promise to significantly alter their trajectories, making early predictions both challenging and exciting. With coaches facing the arduous task of blending experience and fresh talent, we explore the various coaching philosophies and strategies that could elevate teams to contender status or relegate them to being pretenders.
The anticipation for the new season grows as we spotlight the potential impact of strategic decisions and sideline leadership. Each move in the recruiting and transfer cycles could dramatically shift the conference’s balance of power. Stay tuned as we dissect which teams are best positioned to thrive in this ever-changing environment and which may struggle to find their footing in the competitive Big East. This is Big East contenders vs. pretenders.
Way Too Early Big East Contenders Vs. Pretenders (Part 3)
Providence College
Head Coach: Kim English
Incoming Freshmen: Oswin Erhunmwunse – C (4-star recruit), Ryan Mela – SF (3-star recruit)
Impact Transfers (In): Wesley Cardet – SG/SF, Jabri Abdur-Rahim – F, Christ Essandoko – C, Bensley Joseph – PG
Impact Transfers (Out): Garwey Dual – CG
High-Level Outlook: As the Providence Friars gear up for the new season, optimism surges under second-year head coach Kim English. Already recognized as a sharp mind in both the Big East and NCAA, English has quickly earned respect for his coaching skills. Despite losing point guard Devin Carter to the NBA, the team’s spirit remains resilient and prepared. The Friars are ready not only to adapt but also to excel, indicating that Carter’s departure may not hinder them as much as anticipated.
Looking ahead, Providence boasts a roster ready to significantly challenge their Big East rivals. Players like Cardet, Abdur-Rahim, Essandoko, and Joseph are prepared to step up and bridge the gap. They bring a dynamic mix of skill, size, and physicality that could define the season. Additionally, Erhunmwunse joins the team, likely making an immediate impact and enhancing the roster’s depth. This blend of size and strength positions the Friars as formidable opponents on the court. They are well-equipped to leverage their advantages. Although they might initially appear average, the potential to exceed expectations under Kim English’s leadership is evident. With a robust, well-rounded team, Providence is poised to emerge as a dark horse, ready to surprise as a serious contender in the fiercely competitive Big East.
Prediction: Big East Contenders
Seton Hall University
Head Coach: Shaheen Holloway
Incoming Freshmen: Godswill Erheriene – C (3-star recruit), Jahseem Felton – SG (3-star recruit)
Impact Transfers (In): Chaunce Jenkins – G, Zion Harmon – PG, Yacine Toumi – F
Impact Transfers (Out): Kadary Richmond – CG, Dre Davis – SG/SF
High-Level Outlook: Shaheen Holloway and the Seton Hall Pirates enter the new season riding high off their NIT Championship victory. However, they face significant challenges as they lose their top three players and scorers—Richmond, Al-Amir Dawes, and Davis. This major departure leaves a gap in both leadership and offensive power, setting the stage for a testing season ahead.
The team welcomes incoming freshmen Erheriene and Felton. These newcomers are not expected to make immediate impacts but will instead add depth. The addition of transfers Jenkins, Harmon, and Toumi should enhance the team’s capabilities. However, even with these reinforcements, the Pirates are not as strong as last season. Seton Hall will need to fight hard and use every game to build cohesion; they are likely to have a respectable season but won’t be in contention for the top spots in the Big East.
Prediction: Big East Pretenders
St. John’s University
Head Coach: Rick Pitino
Incoming Freshmen: Jaiden Glover – SG (4-star recruit), Khaman Maker – C (3-star recruit)
Impact Transfers (In): Kadary Richmond – CG, Deivon Smith – PG, Aaron Scott – SF/SG, Vincent Iwuchukwu – C
Impact Transfers (Out): N/A
High-Level Outlook: Doubt legendary head coach Rick Pitino at your own peril. In his inaugural season with St. John’s, Pitino showcased his trademark coaching prowess, transforming the team into a formidable contender. Despite a strong season, the Johnnies were controversially snubbed from the NCAA tournament. Pitino, known for his consistent success at every stop in his career, has laid a robust foundation that promises even greater achievements.
This year, St. John’s is ramping up its firepower, welcoming significant talents like Richmond, Smith, Scott, and Iwuchukwu through the transfer portal. Each player brings a unique skill set that could propel the team to new heights. Additionally, incoming freshman Jaiden Glover shows potential to be an immediate game-changer. Heading into year two under Pitino, expect the consistent excellence typical of his teams. This season could mark the beginning of St. John’s resurgence in the Big East.
Prediction: Big East Contenders
