An Epochal Open Letter from Guard Bryce Hopkins to the Providence Friars Basketball, Fans, and the Whole Providence Friars Community
Dear Providence Friars family,
As I sit down to write this letter, I’m reminiscing on every occasion, every cheer, and every obstacle that has formed my time with the Providence Friars. My heart is overflowing with gratitude for the love, support, and strength I have received from this amazing community. This letter is a thank you, not a goodbye—a celebration of everything we’ve accomplished together, and a testament to your unshakable faith in me since the beginning.
I joined the Friars with hope and ambition. But I quickly knew that this program, this family, would provide me with more than simply a place to play basketball. You provided me with confidence, identity, and a place to grow as a man as well as an athlete. I will always be pleased to have worn the black and white, to have represented a tradition founded on heart, grit, and solidarity.
To my coaches, thank you for pushing me every day to be the best version of myself. Your direction, patience, and trust ignited a fire within me, propelling me to succeed in every situation, even when the odds were against us. You saw something in me that I don’t think I saw in myself, and that belief transformed my life.
To my teammates, you are my brothers for life. The fights we waged on the court, the late hours in the gym, the locker room jokes, and the shared dreams—we experienced everything together. We helped each other during difficult times and celebrated like family at good times. I’ll keep those memories with me wherever I go.
Thank you to the fans—our sixth man, our heartbeat—for every chant, every crowded venue, and every time you were there for us. You made the Dunk come to life. You elevated every game beyond the scope of basketball. Your enthusiasm has carried me through my most difficult games, and your support has meant more than words could ever explain.
Providence will remain a part of me. The things I’ve learned, the people I’ve met, and the love I’ve received here will serve me well wherever life takes me next. I may be starting a new chapter soon, but I will always bleed black and white.
With profound gratitude and love,
Bryce Hopkins
Providence Friars Basketball