Do not ask anyone to pronounce his name on the first try. What matters far more is how Oswin Erhunmwunse is turning every opponent’s trip into the lane into a risky adventure.
A Fast-Rising Paint Protector Changing Providence’s Energy
The 6 foot 10 sophomore from Nigeria has opened the 2025 season as the nation’s premier rim protector, and he has done it with a mix of timing, length, and instincts that have taken a massive leap from a year ago.
Providence sits at 2 and 2 through its first four games, a start that has included a defensive meltdown against Virginia Tech and a high-scoring win over Penn. The Friars have had some good nights and some rough ones, but one constant has been the presence of Erhunmwunse lurking around the rim. He opened with four blocks in each of the first two games, added three more against Penn, and then delivered a stunning season high seven blocks in Friday’s road battle with Colorado.
That puts him at 4.5 blocks per game, the best mark in all of college basketball through the first two weeks. Only a small group of players are even in his neighborhood.
Growth That Shows Up in More Than One Column
Erhunmwunse does not need to score 20 a night to make his impact felt, but the sophomore has still chipped in 7.3 points per game along with 8 rebounds. Most of it has come in limited minutes. He logged a season high 30 in the overtime loss to Virginia Tech but played just 19 in the win over Penn. Through four games, he is averaging a little more than 23 minutes per contest.
For a player still developing offensively, his defensive leap stands out even more. Last season he averaged 1.6 blocks across 32 games. The jump to 4.5 is not a small step. It is a full breakout.
Why Providence Needs This Breakout Now
Head coach Kim English enters the season feeling real pressure. His first two years in Providence resulted in a 33 and 34 record, and the Friars have struggled in Big East play. English needs stability, production, and someone who can anchor his defense. Erhunmwunse is giving him all three.
He started 24 games as a freshman and showed flashes, but now he has become a legitimate force who changes how teams prepare for Providence. Opposing guards are already hesitating at the rim, and big men are quickly learning that even a small delay can result in their shot getting erased.
What Comes Next for the Big Man
Providence hosts New Hampshire on Tuesday, then dives into two Big Ten matchups with Penn State and Wisconsin. These games will offer Erhunmwunse a new test against stronger frontcourts and scouting reports built specifically to slow him down.
If these first two weeks are any indication, he will welcome the challenge. The Friars have a long season ahead, but they already know they can rely on one thing. If opponents dare the paint, Erhunmwunse will be waiting.
And right now, that is becoming one of the toughest problems in college basketball.