The Indiana Hoosiers are poised to seek a new head coach as Mike Woodson is expected to part ways with the program after the 2024-25 season. Current discussions have identified several candidates, with Rick Pitino emerging as a notable name. Despite his impressive resume, including national titles and a successful turnaround at St. John's, there are doubts regarding his fit due to concerns about his past and other potential options available to him. The Hoosiers might ultimately choose to pass on Pitino, though he remains an intriguing possibility.

By the Numbers
  • Pitino has led teams to 7 Final Fours and won national titles at Kentucky and Louisville.
  • St. John's currently tops the Big East under Pitino's leadership in his second season.
State of Play
  • Indiana is preparing for a coaching transition post-2024-25 season.
  • Other candidates under consideration include Brad Brownell, Chris Beard, and Greg McDermott.
What's Next

As Indiana navigates its coaching search, decisions will need to be made regarding the involvement of candidates like Pitino. The outcome may hinge on how both Pitino and Indiana weigh past controversies against potential success. The timeline for this decision will likely become clearer as the season progresses.

Bottom Line

While Pitino’s coaching prowess can't be denied, Indiana's concerns about his history may outweigh the benefits of his hiring. The Hoosiers need to balance the allure of a legendary coach with the implications of his past, making a measured decision crucial for the future of the program.