Xavier University made a significant coaching change in its men’s basketball program by hiring Richard Pitino as the new head coach. Pitino, who previously coached at the University of New Mexico, accepted the offer on Tuesday night. The six-year deal was finalized after Xavier Athletic Director Greg Christopher flew to New Mexico to convince Pitino to take the job.
Pitino expressed his excitement about coaching in the Big East conference and working with the Musketeers. He had been in talks with other programs like VCU, Villanova, and West Virginia before choosing Xavier. Pitino’s coaching record includes successful runs at New Mexico, FIU, and Minnesota, where he won the Big Ten Coach of the Year award in 2017.
The hiring of Pitino comes after the departure of former coach Sean Miller, who left for Texas. The circumstances surrounding Miller’s exit led to criticism and affected the candidacy of other potential coaches, like Chris Mack. Pitino’s hire marks the first time in generations that Xavier has selected a coach without a direct connection to the university.
Pitino’s son Donovan Dent, a standout player for New Mexico, has entered the transfer portal. It remains to be seen if Dent will follow his coach to Xavier. The father-son coaching duo of Rick and Richard Pitino will also have the unique opportunity to face each other in the upcoming season. Xavier fans can expect an exciting new chapter with Pitino at the helm of the men’s basketball program.
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