Providence and Villanova are the two smallest schools in the Big East and have developed an intense rivalry over the years. Villanova leads the all-time series 59-38, but you’ll be in for a treat when attending a Providence-Villanova game.
Providence and Chestnut Hill are only separated by about 50 miles, so there are always plenty of fans from both sides at games between the Friars and Eagles. The two teams were both founding members of the Big East and formed a fierce rivalry from 1979 to 2013. They continue to play annually, so get your ticket to the yearly matchup between these two former Big East foes.
Every year Providence plays Rhode Island for the Rhode Island State Championship. The matchup between these two in-state rivals is always intense no matter what the teams’ records are coming into the game. There have been many memorable matchups between the Friars and Rams, including Friars 67-66 victory in 1976, so make sure to be in attendance when the Providence and Rhode Island square off.
Providence Friars Stadium Guide
In Game
Providence may be one of the smallest schools in the Big East, but they have a big basketball history having produced many great coaches and players over the years. The program has four former players and coaches in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame and is looking to produce many more, so don’t miss your chance to attend a Friars basketball game.
In addition to an excellent pedigree, Providence is home to an incredible student section as well. The Friar Fanatics as they’re known come out in large numbers to show support for their team and if you’re an opposing player or fan you’ll struggle to get out of the Amica Mutual Pavilion with a victory.
The Amica Mutual Pavilion itself is a rather nice place to see a game and is home to some excellent sightlines. You’ll also be able to see some of the Friars’ rich basketball history on display as several banners are hanging up that celebrate the best players, coaches, and teams in Providence history.
Finally, the arena is located in downtown Providence, so you’ll find plenty to do before and after the game. You can grab a drink at Trinity Brewhouse across the street from the Dunkin’ Donut Center, and there are lots of attractions nearby including the Providence Place Mall and Rhode Island State House. Those of you who love Italian food will especially be in luck as the arena is right near Federal Hill, which is home to several fantastic Italian restaurants.
A trip to Providence is a good time for any college basketball fan who wants to experience a fun game day atmosphere in Rhode Island’s capital.
Before the game stop by the arena’s front office to see the table where the Big East was formed. The Big East began at the Amica Mutual Pavilion, so stop by the table and see where it all started.
Banners
Take some time to enjoy the banners hanging from the rafters of the Amica Mutual Pavilion. The banners honor all of the best teams and players in Providence history including the 1973 and 1987 Final Four teams and Basketball Hall of Famer Lenny Wilkens.
When opposing players shoot free throws, Providence fans distract them by jumping up and waving pom-poms. The routine is quite distracting and works fairly frequently, so come prepared for your team to miss plenty of free throws when they face the Friars.
Friar Fanatics
The Friar Fanatics are the student section at Providence games, and they do an excellent job of spurring on their team. Providence is among the most difficult places to play in the Big East in large part due to the wild nature of the Friars Fanatics. Enjoy the vocal support of the Friar Fanatics at a Providence basketball game.
Pep Band
The Providence pep band does an excellent job of creating an electric in-game atmosphere. The band energizes the crowd with their music and is a big part of the game day experience at a Friars game, so enjoy the pep band’s performance during your visit.
The Providence Cheerleading squad energizes Friars fans at every Friars home game as well as the Big East Tournament and Late Night Madness. The cheer squad leads the crowd in a variety of cheers and performs some great routines, so don’t miss them when attending a Friars basketball game.
Friar Dom
The Friar Dom is the official mascot of Providence athletics, and you can see him entertaining the crowd at every Providence home basketball game. He represents the Friar Fanatics well and is a big part of any Friars game day, so keep an eye out for Friar Dom.
Mother of Truth, we proudly pledge to thee
Undying love and steadfast loyalty.
From thee we learned the wondrous work of God,
His goodness, grace, and holy power;
Clear has thou shown that pathways must be trod;
All fearless now we brave life’s hour!
Though failure frown, though kindly fortune smile,
Firm our advance, naught can us e’er beguile.
To honor bound, to love and virtue sworn,
Lift we our voices in full acclaim
Our lives shall thee with noble deeds adorn;
Hail Providence! We praise thy name!
Watch video
