Wednesday, October 15, 2025
The primary objective in basketball is, ultimately, to secure victories. However, the three Division I men’s basketball coaches in Rhode Island are currently facing challenges, as all hold losing records at their institutions.
These days, the concept of “patience” seems to be fading away in sports. Winning is a crucial driver for every Division I basketball program, particularly at Providence College and the University of Rhode Island, where the basketball scene is heavily commercialized. The expectation is to excel in their conferences and routinely gain invites to the NCAA Tournament.
Conversely, Brown University’s basketball team has not made it to the NCAA Tournament for over four decades, with their last appearance in 1985. Their previous appearance was back in 1939 during the tournament’s inaugural year.
Meanwhile, Bryant University recently appointed Jamion Christian as their new men’s basketball head coach, following Phil Martelli, Jr.’s transition to VCU.
For coaches Kim English from PC, Archie Miller of URI, and Mike Martin at Brown, each faces a different level of pressure in their roles. Here’s a closer look at their situations:
Providence College and Kim English
At Providence College, basketball is paramount, shaping the school’s legacy over the past 70 years. In his two seasons, English has posted a 33-34 overall record and a 16-24 mark in the Big East, translating to a 40% winning rate. He enters his third season with significant talent, backed by an NIL investment reportedly between $8 to $10 million for the current year. The drive will be to avoid replicating last year’s performance, which saw the team finish with 20 losses.
University of Rhode Island and Archie Miller
Archie Miller appears to be in the most precarious position. Currently in the fourth year of a five-year contract, he has yet to lead the Rams back to the NCAA tournament, last achieved in the 2017-18 season. Miller holds a record of 39-55 at URI, with an 18-36 conference record, and the team is projected to finish near the bottom of the Atlantic-10 standings.
Brown University and Mike Martin
Mike Martin’s situation is less tenuous, though still pressing. The Bears have missed the Ivy League playoffs yet again, now facing a season without standout player Kino Lilly, Jr. In his 13 years at Brown, Martin’s overall record stands at 162-184, with a 70-98 showing in Ivy League games, reflecting modest expectations for success.
Pressure and Financial Commitments
Coaches like English and Miller are under considerable pressure, supported by hefty salaries. English, who signed a six-year deal upon joining PC, has reportedly seen his contract extended, while Miller, entering the fourth year of a five-year contract, earns over $2 million annually. With substantial financial investments come elevated expectations to produce results swiftly.
COVER PHOTO: Topshere Media, Unsplash, animated by GoLocal in AI.
