Texas’s Lubbock Kim English, the head coach of the Providence Friars, made a daring and inspirational declaration: loyalty still matters in a college basketball environment that is becoming more and more characterized by incredible offers and quick movement. The Kentucky Wildcats reportedly made English decline a historic offer of $205 million NIL on Monday, which would have broken coaching remuneration records at all collegiate sporting levels.
English’s choice shocked the collegiate basketball community. In a time when wealthy, well-known programs frequently entice coaches to leave Providence, English’s decision to stay with one of the sport’s established powerhouses was unexpected and greatly valued by Friar supporters.
During a tearful team meeting, English reportedly told players and university officials, “My loyalty lies with the Friars.” “This is where I call home. I came here to construct something unique, not just to get by.
English has emerged as a representation of Providence basketball’s rebirth and optimism since taking over as head coach in 2023. He led the Friars to a 21-win season and a solid Big East Conference performance in his first season, which was no small accomplishment for a school that had been in disarray since former head coach Ed Cooley left.
English has rapidly established himself as one of the game’s most brilliant young brains, and the Wildcats’ relentless pursuit of him was mirrored in the rumored NIL offer from Kentucky, which included media partnerships, personal endorsement opportunities, and incentives linked to program achievement. However, English felt that what he was developing in Rhode Island was more important than the offer.
“I love the community, I love our players, and I believe in the vision we have here,” English told a local Providence news station. “That sense of purpose cannot be replaced by money.”
English’s decision has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from Providence College administration, supporters, and alumni, who have praised his honesty and dedication to the school’s objective.
Steve Napolillo, the athletic director of Providence, stated, “Coach English embodies everything we want our program to represent — class, leadership, and loyalty.” “His refusal to accept such an offer says a lot about his character.”
Kim English’s unrelenting dedication to Providence serves as a potent reminder that community, relationships, and origins still have significance in a sport that is frequently governed by money and prestige. English’s choice to stay is a win for college basketball in general as well as for Providence, as he continues to shape the Friars into a force in the Big East and on a national level.