Chris Mack Confirms Stay:: Mack announced via social media he will remain head coach at the College of Charleston for a second season, ending rumors of a return to Xavier.
Sean Miller Departs:: Miller, who led Xavier to the NCAA tournament this season, accepted the head coaching position at the University of Texas.
Xavier Hires Richard Pitino:: To fill the vacancy, Xavier hired Richard Pitino, son of legendary coach Rick Pitino. Pitino recently coached New Mexico, also leading them to this year's NCAA tournament.
Why this matters:: Mack's decision provides stability for Charleston's program after a successful first season under his leadership (24-9 record). For Xavier, Pitino's hiring marks a new direction after Miller's second stint, bringing another established coaching name into the competitive Big East conference.
The Xavier Musketeers faced a coaching search after Sean Miller announced his move to Texas on March 24, 2025. Miller, who had returned to Xavier in 2022, guided the team to the NCAA tournament, ironically defeating Texas in the First Four before his departure was confirmed.
Attention quickly turned to Chris Mack, Xavier's all-time winningest coach (2009-18, eight NCAA Tournament appearances). Mack, a Cincinnati native, had just completed a successful 24-9 debut season at the College of Charleston. Despite the strong ties and speculation, Mack publicly stated his intention to stay in Charleston, tweeting, "The Macks can’t wait to run it back in year two. Better than ever."
With Mack out of the running, Xavier finalized a deal with Richard Pitino. Pitino brings his own NCAA tournament experience, having coached New Mexico in the 2025 tournament. His hiring adds another layer of intrigue to the Big East, pitting him against his father, Rick Pitino, who coaches St. John's within the same conference.
Why was Chris Mack considered a candidate for the Xavier job?
Mack is Xavier's all-time winningest coach, having led the program successfully from 2009 to 2018 before coaching stints at Louisville and College of Charleston. His history and success made him a logical candidate when the position opened.
Who is Richard Pitino?
Richard Pitino is the new head coach for Xavier men's basketball. He previously coached at the University of New Mexico and is the son of Hall of Fame coach Rick Pitino.
Where did former Xavier coach Sean Miller go?
Sean Miller accepted the head coaching position at the University of Texas.
For Charleston Fans:: Expect continuity and continued building under Coach Mack, who reaffirmed his commitment after a strong first season.
For Xavier Fans:: The program enters a new era under Richard Pitino, bringing a different coaching style and pedigree to the Musketeers.
For College Basketball Fans:: The Big East adds another compelling storyline with the father-son coaching dynamic between Richard Pitino (Xavier) and Rick Pitino (St. John's).
Do you think Richard Pitino is a good fit for Xavier? Will Chris Mack build on his success at Charleston? Let us know!
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