The Maryland Terrapins’ search for a head coach has swung in the direction of one legendary coach. According to The Sports Junkies of 106.7 the Fan, Maryland is “heavily pursuing” current Iona head coach and former Louisville and Kentucky legend Rick Pitino.
“We’re not saying Rick is the guy [yet],” Junkies host Jason Bishop said. “We’re just saying that Maryland really likes Pitino. He’s their top dog.”
“He’s their number one choice,” Eric Bickel added. “They’re going hard after him right now and there are a couple donors that are leading the charge.”
The 69-year old Pitino is a two-time national champion as a head coach, winning the title in 1996 at Kentucky and 2013 at Louisville. However, the Louisville title has since been vacated following an escort sex scandal involving recruits and players between 2010-2014 under Pitino’s watch.
Pitino was suspended five games at the conclusion of the NCAA investigation in 2017. Louisville fired Pitino before the 2017-18 season after allegations sparked about a “pay to play” scandal involving the program and an Adidas executive.
After coaching in Greece, Pitino landed the head coach job at Iona College. He is 36-11 in two seasons with the Gaels. He led the team to an MAAC tournament championship and a berth in the NCAA Tournament.
This season, Iona is 24-5 and in first place of the MAAC with a 16-2 conference record.
There is no doubt that Pitino is a great coach. He has seven Final Four appearances between three programs — Providence, Kentucky and Louisville. He also has over 800 career wins. But age and the Louisville ordeal may be concerning for some.
Other names have circulated as considerations for Maryland including Ed Cooley, Andy Enfield and Kevin Willard. But, neither has the resume and prestige as Pitino.
