Pitt Retains Men's Basketball Coach Jeff Capel for 9th Season

Athletic director Allen Greene announces Capel will continue leading the Panthers program.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 10:39pm

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The University of Pittsburgh has decided to retain men's basketball coach Jeff Capel for a ninth season, according to an announcement from athletic director Allen Greene. This comes after the Panthers' 98-88 loss to NC State in the second round of the ACC Tournament.

Why it matters

Capel's future with the program had been in question following a disappointing season, but the university has opted to keep him on board as they look to rebuild the team and compete in the highly competitive ACC conference.

The details

Pitt finished the 2025-26 season with a 14-17 record and failed to make the NCAA Tournament. Despite the team's struggles, the university has decided to give Capel another chance to turn the program around and lead the Panthers back to the postseason.

  • Pitt's season ended on March 12, 2026 with the loss to NC State in the ACC Tournament.
  • The announcement of Capel's retention was made on March 13, 2026.

The players

Jeff Capel

The head coach of the University of Pittsburgh men's basketball team, who has led the program since 2018.

Allen Greene

The athletic director at the University of Pittsburgh, who made the decision to retain Capel as the Panthers' head coach.

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What they’re saying

“We believe Jeff Capel is the right person to lead our men's basketball program and help us compete in the ACC.”

— Allen Greene, Athletic Director, University of Pittsburgh

What’s next

Capel and the Panthers will now turn their attention to the offseason, where they will look to make roster improvements and prepare for the 2026-27 campaign.

The takeaway

Pitt's decision to retain Capel demonstrates the university's commitment to stability and continuity within the men's basketball program, despite a disappointing season. The Panthers are hoping Capel can use this opportunity to rebuild the team and guide them to greater success in the future.