Xavier Musketeers Make Splash with Richard Pitino Hire: What’s Next?
The Xavier Musketeers now have a new head coach. They chose Richard Pitino. He led New Mexico State to success, and his record shows promise. His father, Rick Pitino, is a famous coach. Xavier hopes Richard will bring similar brilliance. The team also draws hope from the Lobos’ recent NCAA Tournament run.
Xavier has had great moments in the past. They reached the Elite Eight several times, and they celebrated high points. They also have met hard seasons. Still, many see Xavier as a stable program. Sean Miller led the team to a Sweet Sixteen. An attractive offer from Texas then led him to leave.
Many programs suffer during coach changes. Xavier did not wait. They acted fast. At just 42, Pitino already has an impressive record. He won the NIT Championship in 2014 and earned Big Ten Coach of the Year in 2017. His success at New Mexico and in the Mountain West will help the Musketeers.
Now that the coaching role is clear, what comes next? Pitino’s name may boost NIL opportunities. His reputation can attract alumni support. This support may change the funding game. It echoes how Rick Pitino’s legacy helped programs like St. John’s.
Richard Pitino is not his father, yet he shows skill in building programs and rosters. He will work hard with the transfer portal. Xavier wants to improve here. Sean Miller once brought players through transfers. Pitino’s strong name should make this work even better.
This change marks a big shift for Xavier. Pitino is the first head coach without school ties since 2001. The roster needs work too. Key players such as Trey Green, Cam Fletcher, Dailyn Swain, Josh Hugley IV, and Ryan Conwell have entered the transfer portal. Seven more players have finished their eligibility.
A key next step for Pitino is to reconnect with Donovan Dent, his former point guard. Dent was the Mountain West Player of the Year, and his return could boost the team. Yet, Pitino faces the task of reassembling the roster amid many departures. Fundraising for NIL will also be vital. This effort should secure Xavier’s competitive edge and brand in Cincinnati.
The era of Zach Freemantle ends as Miller exits and the transfer portal opens. The Musketeers now must adapt quickly. Pitino brings new hope. He may use momentum from a tough year in the Big East to push the team forward. Soon, Xavier will compete with heavyweights such as UConn, Creighton, Marquette, and St. John’s.
Some growing pains are sure in Pitino’s first season. The roster will undergo significant change. This challenge is why Xavier chose a coach of his caliber. The coming offseason is set to be decisive, with the Musketeers aiming to shape a strong future for their program.
