Bryce Hopkins Decides to Stay with Providence Friars, Guided by Marvin Barnes’ Encouragement to Become a Legend
Providence, RI – In a surprising turn of events, Bryce Hopkins has announced he will stay with the Providence Friars for his senior season after receiving powerful advice and encouragement from Providence basketball legend Marvin Barnes. Initially considering a transfer to St. John’s University, Hopkins has chosen to remain at Providence, motivated by Barnes’ wisdom and vision for his potential to become a legend at the school.
Providence Career Highlights
Hopkins, a dynamic 6-foot-7 forward from Oak Park, Illinois, quickly made a name for himself at Providence after transferring from the University of Kentucky. In his sophomore season in 2022-2023, he averaged an impressive 15.8 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game, earning First-Team All-Big East honors. His performances helped propel Providence into the NCAA tournament, and he quickly became one of the top players in college basketball.
Marvin Barnes’ Influence
After battling through a difficult 2023-2024 season, which was impacted by a left knee injury that limited him to just 17 games, Hopkins entered the transfer portal in March 2025. However, after hearing about his potential departure, Providence legend Marvin Barnes reached out to Hopkins with an offer of guidance.
Barnes, one of the greatest players in Providence history, was a two-time All-American and remains one of the most iconic forwards to ever wear the Friars’ jersey. Drawing from his own experiences, Barnes shared how Providence had shaped him both on and off the court and how he had left a lasting legacy with the program.
“I know what it’s like to face adversity and have doubts, but Providence is the place that can help you unlock your true potential,” Barnes said. “Stay, and you can write your own legendary story here. This place can give you the platform to do great things.”
A Turning Point for Hopkins
Hopkins, inspired by Barnes’ message and his legacy at Providence, decided to reconsider his transfer plans and remain with the Friars. Barnes’ words resonated with Hopkins, encouraging him to stay focused on his long-term goals and build his own legacy at Providence, just as Barnes did during his time with the program.
“I’ve thought a lot about what Marvin said, and it made me realize how much this place has to offer,” Hopkins said. “I have a chance to be part of something special here, and I’m excited to work toward building my legacy as a Providence Friar.”
Looking Ahead
Hopkins is set to return to Providence for the 2025-2026 season with a renewed sense of purpose. With the mentorship of Marvin Barnes and the support of the Friars’ coaching staff, Hopkins now has the opportunity to elevate his game and help lead Providence to new heights.
The Friars’ faithful will be watching closely as Hopkins looks to build on his previous successes and etch his name alongside the greats in Providence basketball history. Thanks to the intervention of a true Friar legend, Bryce Hopkins has chosen to stay and fight for a legendary future with the Providence College basketball program.
