Xavier Coach Pitino Eyed for Providence Job

Pitino would reportedly consider leaving Xavier for Providence if the job opens up.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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According to reports, Xavier head coach Richard Pitino would "highly consider" leaving the school to take the Providence head coaching job if it becomes available. Pitino has been the head coach at Xavier since 2023.

Why it matters

Pitino is considered one of the top young coaches in college basketball, and his potential departure from Xavier would be a significant loss for the program. Providence is a Big East rival of Xavier, and Pitino moving there would shake up the conference landscape.

The details

The report comes from Jeff Goodman of The Field of 68, who said Pitino would "highly consider" the Providence job if it opens up. Pitino has led Xavier to two NCAA Tournament appearances in his three seasons as head coach.

  • Pitino has been the head coach at Xavier since 2023.

The players

Richard Pitino

The head coach of the Xavier men's basketball team since 2023.

Providence

A Big East Conference rival of Xavier.

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What they’re saying

“Richard Pitino would 'highly consider' leaving Xavier for Providence job if open”

— Jeff Goodman, Reporter (The Field of 68)

What’s next

If the Providence head coaching job does open up, it will be closely watched whether Pitino decides to leave Xavier to take the position.

The takeaway

Pitino's potential departure from Xavier would be a significant loss for the program, as he has led them to two NCAA Tournament appearances in his three seasons as head coach. His willingness to consider the Providence job shows he is open to new opportunities, which could impact Xavier's future.