Photo Courtesy of UNM Athletics
The Value of a Successful College Basketball Coach: Richard Pitino and the UNM Lobos’ Resurgence
Under head coach Richard Pitino’s leadership, the University of New Mexico (UNM) Lobos men’s basketball team has transformed remarkably.
The team has evolved from a struggling program into a formidable force within the Mountain West Conference.
His name is now being considered for high-profile coaching positions in NCAA basketball. This is due to the recognition associated with the Pitino name and his undeniable success in New Mexico.
His tenure has been marked by steady improvement and strategic recruiting. His dynamic playing style has reignited enthusiasm among fans. It has positioned the Lobos for a promising future.
Rebuilding the Program
When Pitino took over in 2021, the Lobos were reeling from a challenging 6–16 season.
In his first year, he guided the team to a 13–19 record. This included a signature win over a ranked Wyoming squad. It signaled the start of a turnaround.
Each subsequent season has seen significant progress. This progress culminated in the team’s first 20-win season. It also led to a postseason appearance in nearly a decade during the 2022-23 campaign.
The “Richard Pitino Effect” on UNM Basketball
2021–22 Season: Laying the Foundation
Shortly after leaving Minnesota, Pitino was appointed the 22nd head coach in UNM’s history on March 17, 2021.
He acted swiftly to use the transfer portal to improve the roster. He secured future All-Mountain West performers Jaelen House (Arizona State) and Jamal Mashburn Jr. (Minnesota) as foundational players.
Photo Courtesy of UNM Athletics
The Lobos finished 13–19 overall and 5–12 in conference play. Despite this, they were highly competitive. They even secured a crucial win over a ranked Wyoming team.
2022–23 Season: A Statement Year
The Lobos stormed to a 14–0 start, securing victories over NCAA Tournament-bound teams such as St. Mary’s, Iona (coached by Rick Pitino), and Oral Roberts.
Mashburn, House, and transfer Morris Udeze (Wichita State) earned all-league honors.
At the same time, freshman Donovan Dent provided valuable minutes off the bench.
Despite struggling down the stretch, UNM finished 22–12 and made an NIT appearance, marking a return to national relevance.
2023–24 Season: A Championship Season
In Pitino’s third year, the Lobos climbed to a NET Ranking of 22. They won the Mountain West Conference Tournament in Las Vegas. This secured their first NCAA Tournament berth in a decade.
Five players received All-Mountain West honors, including Dent, JT Toppin, and House, who made the Second Team. T
Photo Courtesy of UNM Athletics
Although the Lobos fell to Clemson in the first round, their 26–10 record demonstrated the program’s resurgence.
2024–25 Season: NCAA Tournament Breakthrough
The Lobos continued their upward trajectory by opening the season with a statement win over UCLA. They carried this momentum into March Madness.
As a No. 10 seed, UNM achieved a historic 75-66 victory over No. 7 Marquette. Richard and his father, Rick Pitino, became the first father-son duo to win NCAA Tournament games in the same year.
Though they fell to No. 2 seed Michigan State in the second round, the Lobos’ 27-8 record was impressive. Their Mountain West regular season title and NCAA Tournament win signaled their full return to prominence.
Recruiting Success and Key Players
Pitino’s ability to attract top talent has been crucial to the Lobos’ success. Standout players include guard Donovan Dent. He led the team in points and assists.
Forward Nelly Junior Joseph, a dominant presence in rebounding, has also flourished under his leadership.
Transfers have strengthened the roster. One key player is shooting guard CJ Noland from North Texas. Promising freshmen like guards Kayde Dotson and Dylan Chavez also add strength to the team.
Dent had a record-setting season. He finished with 715 points, which is the fourth most in UNM history.
photo courtesy of AP Photo/Eric Draper)
He also had 224 assists, the second most in UNM history. Dent became the first player in Mountain West history to achieve 700 points and 220 assists in a season.
Looking Ahead
With Pitino recently signing a contract extension through the 2028-29 season, UNM’s future is bright.
His uptempo, high-scoring style has not only led to wins but has also revitalized the fan base.
The Lobos have a strong core of returning players. They also have a steady pipeline of recruits. The Lobos are well-positioned to sustain their recent success.
Reflecting on the season, Pitino stated:
“I sit up here extremely proud, but certainly disappointed that we didn’t get the win. We did so many great things all year. To win a title back-to-back years was incredible. Returning to the NCAA Tournament and reaching the round of 32 wouldn’t have been possible without these guys.
Michigan State is a terrific team, physical and tough. The foul trouble for us was very, very difficult.
They had 19 points to our five from the free-throw line. But give them credit; it’s a championship program.
Photo courtesy of UNM Athletics
It’s a program that we’re trying to build towards. But I am very grateful for those guys in the locker room and our fans. It was a special, special season. It never ends well, only for one team, but really, really proud of everybody.”
Financial and Institutional Benefits of Success
Photo Courtesy of Rick Ostentoski
A successful basketball coach like Pitino brings significant financial benefits to a university, including
Media and Branding Value
UNM Athletics accrued $258 million in advertising value over three years from television broadcasts, streaming platforms, and social media. Participation in the NCAA Tournament enhances national visibility, potentially leading to:Collegiate Consulting
- Increased Merchandise Sales: A higher profile can drive sales of team apparel and memorabilia.
- Enhanced Recruitment: Greater exposure can attract talented athletes and students to the university.
Considerations
While the benefits are substantial, it’s essential to acknowledge the associated costs:
- Operational Expenses: Maintaining a competitive basketball program involves significant investment in coaching, facilities, and travel.
- Revenue Distribution: NCAA tournament earnings are shared among conference members. This means UNM receives only a portion of the total revenue generated.
In summary, UNM’s participation and success in the NCAA Tournament can yield considerable financial benefits. This reinforces the value of investing in a competitive basketball program.
Conclusion
Richard Pitino’s tenure at UNM exemplifies strategic vision and effective recruiting. His dynamic coaching rejuvenates a basketball program. It also brings monetary value to the school he coaches as.
His last four years have been in New Mexico, with a record of 88–48 (.647). He has improved each year, going from 13-19 to 22-12 to 26-10 to 27-7.
Talk to the local fan base about how they feel about Richard Pitino. 99% of them are thrilled he is at the helm of this Lobo Ship. He has meant that much to Lobo Nation.
His leadership has positioned the Lobos as contenders in the Mountain West in a transfer portal/NIL era. Certain players will give up large NIL deals (won’t mention names). They prefer to be loyal to him and the Lobo progam.
This makes a compelling case for the immense value of a successful college basketball coach.
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