Richard Pitino might not have been the first choice by Minnesota to replace Tubby Smith, and questions about favoritism could follow him the rest of his career.
A day after his son Richard Pitino agreed to become the next head coach at Minnesota, Rick Pitino proclaimed the 30-year-old up-and-comer “more than ready” for the challenge.
Richard Pitino was regarded as one of the nation's up-and-coming young coaches at Florida International and comes with a last name that draws immediate respect in all corners of college basketball.
Richard Pitino has built a resume as one of the nation's up-and-coming young coaches at Florida International and bears a last name that draws immediate respect in all corners of college basketball.
Minnesota has picked Richard Pitino, the son of Louisville coach Rick Pitino, to take over for Tubby Smith.
Richard Pitino had two options. He could remain part of his father's coaching staff at Louisville and aim at returning to the Final Four next season, or take over a program that hasn't posted a winning record since he was a teenager.
After firing Isiah Thomas, Florida International is set to replace him with another recognizable name.
Florida coach Billy Donovan is treating his revamped staff like an overhauled roster. He's trying to build bonds, develop chemistry and create teamwork.
Richard Pitino is back coaching alongside his father Rick at Louisville.
