UNM's season ended with a loss to Michigan State in the second round of the NCAA Tournament.
Coach Richard Pitino's name has been linked to the head coaching vacancy at Villanova.
Villanova could potentially buy Pitino out of his UNM contract for $375,000.
Pitino's current annual salary at UNM is $1.2 million, with an increase scheduled for next season.
Star point guard Donovan Dent has not yet entered the transfer portal, but keeping him is seen as crucial.
Two UNM players, Shane Douma-Sanchez and Quenton Webb, have entered the transfer portal.
Why this matters:: The potential departure of Coach Pitino and/or Donovan Dent could significantly impact the momentum and future success of the UNM Lobos basketball program.
The UNM Lobos had a successful season, reaching the NCAA Tournament. However, their second-round loss has sparked speculation about the future of the team's leadership. Richard Pitino, having signed a new contract last year, has options and is reportedly being considered for the head coaching position at Villanova, a prestigious basketball program. The financial aspects of a potential move are significant, with Villanova having previously paid its former coach $4.4 million annually. Meanwhile, the transfer portal's opening raises concerns about player retention. The priority for UNM appears to be retaining both Pitino and Dent to maintain the program's upward trajectory.
Q: What is the buyout amount for Coach Pitino's contract?
It would cost $375,000 to buy Pitino out of his contract before 2029.
Q: Which UNM players have entered the transfer portal?
Shane Douma-Sanchez and Quenton Webb have entered the transfer portal.
The immediate future of the UNM Lobos basketball program is uncertain.
The decisions of Coach Pitino and Donovan Dent will be pivotal.
Fans should be prepared for potential significant changes within the team.
Do you think Pitino will stay at UNM or move to Villanova? Will Dent remain a Lobo? Let us know!
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What next for UNM Lobos, Pitino?: https://www.kob.com/sports/what-next-for-unm-lobos-pitino/
UNM star point guard Donovan Dent enters transfer portal: https://www.abqjournal.com/sports/article_0008f93f-afce-4ba9-808b-0a4f376012bd.html
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