Deadspin: Bryan Hodgson Brings Fast Pace as Providence Opens Against Maine

Hodgson starts at Providence

Providence hired Hodgson in March after parting ways with former coach Kim English. Last season, Hodgson led South Florida to a 25-9 record and the American Conference title. The team earned an 11th seed in the NCAA Tournament, then lost to Louisville in the first round.

Hodgson said the team has embraced his faster style more quickly than he expected. He described uncertainty six weeks earlier about whether Providence was strong defensively or struggling offensively, and said daily practices have tested the players.

Byrd anchors the Friars

Byrd scored a team-high 19 points in Providence’s 101-73 exhibition win over Georgia Tech on Oct. 24. The Friars also beat Pitt 87-64 in preseason play.

Transfers could add production

Malik Mack, who transferred from Georgetown, and Devin Vanterpool, from Florida Atlantic, are other potential contributors. Vanterpool led Florida Atlantic last season with 15.8 points and 6.3 rebounds per game.

An ankle injury kept Vanterpool out against Georgia Tech. Hodgson said he hopes Vanterpool will be able to contribute against Maine.

Maine brings a rebuilt roster

Maine has eight new players and was selected to finish eighth among nine America East teams. Returning players include Ace Flagg, twin brother of Cooper Flagg, who averaged 6.7 points in 24.2 minutes per game as a freshman last season.

Coach Chris Markwood said Ace Flagg became more confident as the season progressed. Killian Gribben and Darius Lopes also return after missing almost all of last season with lower-body injuries.

Maine’s transfer additions include Villiam Garcia Adsten from Drexel and DeAndre Williams from Holy Cross. Markwood described Williams as a physical, two-way guard and said Garcia Adsten’s potential could raise the team’s ceiling.