Rumors of coaching transfers are heating up the college basketball scene each week, connecting New Mexico head coach Richard Pitino to the Virginia Cavaliers because of specific hearsay. With Ron Sanchez serving as interim head coach this season, the program desperately needs a permanent coach. Is Richard really joining Virginia? Let’s find out.
Ever since Richard got fired from Minnesota four years ago, the New Mexico Lobos have been there to support him and the coach has delivered. Richard has quickly turned Lobos into a top team in Mountain West. The Lobos ended their regular season at the top with an overall record of 25-6. Because of overwhelming success in the West, the coach has gained the trust of programs which has led to multiple reports.
Before his connection to Virginia, rumors placed Richard at Florida State, but the Seminoles’ appointment of Luke Loucks as their new Head Coach later invalidated those rumors. According to On3’s Joe Tipton, Richard Pitino’s name has started gaining traction in Virginia’s search for a new head coach.
The college basketball coaching carousel is spinning. Here is the latest intel I’m hearing on the Indiana, Virginia, and NC State openings (On3+): https://t.co/WdHbxsmmg4 pic.twitter.com/uxTYG2hnRQ
— Joe Tipton (@TiptonEdits) March 11, 2025
The Cavaliers are looking to replace Tony Bennett, who unexpectedly stepped away before the season, leaving a major void in the program. “The college basketball coaching carousel is spinning,” Joe mentioned on his X account. “Here is the latest intel I’m hearing on the Indiana, Virginia, and NC State openings (On3+).”
Richard’s remarkable turnaround has led to his current status as one of the most sought-after coaches. In the 13 years of his coaching career, he has a record of 245-184. However, it’s not only Richard who’s in line for the HC’s role. VCU men’s coach Ryan Odom is also in talks to become the head coach. Ryan (50) has a 219-126 record in 11 seasons as a head coach and they are in an excellent position this season going into the A-10 tournament.
Here it is worth noting that Odom is the same guy who’s responsible for UVA’s darkest hour in their history. He was UMBC’s head coach when they made history in the 2018 NCAA Tournament, becoming the first No. 16 seed ever to defeat a No. 1 seed. While Lobo continues to prove his dominance in the MWC it won’t be easy for him to get role.
Lobos’ Dominance Continues Under Richard Pitino
The Lobos won their final regular game of the season at home against the UNLV Runnin Rebels (81-67). This provides surety that Mexico is going make it into the NCAA tournament for a second consecutive time now. Nelly Junior Joseph was the one to watch out for in this game. The Center recorded a double-double scoring 26 points and 16 rebounds, supported by Guard Donovan Dent who scored 20 points. The guard has been even named as the Mountain West Player of the year due to his incredible performances.
The Lobos clinched their regular season Mountain West Title, fulfilling a vision Pitino always believed in.“That’s why we came here. I really believe you can win championships here. We obviously did it last year,” Pitino said. “To do it in front of one of the best fanbases in all of college basketball is really special.”
The last time the Lobos made it to the NCAA tournament for a consecutive time, it was 2014. Goes to show what potential Rick Pitino’s son, Richard has. So no matter where Richard Pitino ends up, it’s certain that he’s proven himself as a top-tier coach. His time with New Mexico has been nothing short of remarkable, and with a new opportunity on the horizon he could become one of the elites.
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