Providence names Davis head coach

Davis arrives in Rhode Island after just one season at Drake, where he replaced his father Tom and led the Bulldogs to a 28-5 record and the Missouri Valley Conference regular-season and tournament titles.

The Bulldogs also made their first trip to the NCAA Tournament since 1971 and upended Western Kentucky, 101-99, in overtime.

"We are very excited to have Keno Davis leading our men's basketball program," Providence president Reverend Brian Shanley said. "Over the last several weeks, we have conducted a thorough search. During this process, we talked to some of the most knowledgeable members of the college basketball community. It was our task to find a coach who would lead our student-athletes and embrace the college's mission. Keno Davis met all of our selection criteria."

Davis replaces Tim Welsh, who was fired March 15 after 10 seasons with the Friars.

Providence went 15-16 last year and finished 12th in the Big East.

"I believe Keno Davis has the knowledge, passion, commitment and ability to bring Providence College basketball to another level," athletics director Bob Driscoll said. "Throughout his career he has demonstrated that he is an excellent leader and teacher.

"From the first moment I met Keno, I was impressed with his competitive nature and his desire to return Friar basketball to national prominence. His hiring is one of the many steps we have taken to improve the Friar men's basketball program."