Providence Basketball: 3 questions facing the Friars for 2018-19

Head coach Ed Cooley has once again put together a strong roster for Providence basketball. Yet, there are many questions surrounding the team.

Providence basketball has been one of the consistent programs in the nation over the past few years. Under the guidance of head coach Ed Cooley, the Friars have reached the Big Dance in each of the last five years and have emerged as one of the leading programs in the “New” Big East. Yet, there is still one thing missing: a deep NCAA Tournament run.

Despite receiving a bid to the most prestigious postseason tournament five consecutive times, the program has failed to make any sort of “run” to this point. In fact, the Friars have won just one NCAA Tournament game during this stretch and are yet to reach a Sweet 16. Because of this, it is clear that Providence is yet to progress to the next level as a program.

Could this all change in 2018-19, though? Heading into this season, many are anticipating another strong season out of Providence. After all, Ed Cooley is still the head coach and the Big East is expected to experience a down season overall. With these two factors taken into account, the Friars might be able to compete for the league title this year. And if that ends up occurring, then the team should find its way back to the NCAA Tournament where maybe the stars finally align.

Still, this potential journey will not be easy. Providence basketball had to wave goodbye to several key seniors last season and, despite a strong recruiting class coming in, they will not be easy to replace. With this being said, let’s take a look at three of the most pressing questions facing the Friars heading into this season.