Richard Pitino is reportedly willing to cut his run at Xavier short.
The Musketeers are 13-14 during Pitino's first season as head coach, but he could already have eyes on another Big East men's basketball program. The Field of 68's Jeff Goodman said Pitino would "highly consider" leaving Xavier if he could land Providence's job.
Goodman called Pitino an "easy choice" for Providence, which could seek "a safe hire" or one that satisfies fans if replacing Kim English after three seasons.
Richard Pitino would “highly consider” leaving Xavier for Providence, source told @TheFieldOf68 and @GoodmanHoops 👀
FULL COACHING CAROUSEL RUNDOWN: https://t.co/lApARTX4Ehpic.twitter.com/dyN8bCqRTm
— The Field of 68 (@TheFieldOf68) February 24, 2026
Richard Pitino to Providence?
Pitino went to Xavier after steering New Mexico to back-to-back NCAA tournament appearances. He hasn't had the same success with the Musketeers, who are 5-11 in Big East play.
Xavier has allowed 79.1 points per game, ranking 316 out of 365 Division I teams. Pitino's squad has dropped seven of its last nine games, including an overtime loss to his father.
Rick Pitino led St. John's to an 87-82 win over Xavier on Feb. 9 at Madison Square Garden. While the older Pitino has the Red Storm atop the Big East standings, his son is looking to break .500 over the final four games.
Providence hasn't fared any better this season. At 12-15, the Friars are in danger of suffering their second straight losing season under head coach Kim English.
The Friars are tied with Xavier and Georgetown for eighth in the Big East and are allowing the most points per game (84.7) in school history. English's seat is thus heating up, and a program that made seven March Madness visits in Ed Cooley's last 10 seasons as head coach could seek a change.
Goodman's report adds intrigue to Wednesday's matchup between Xavier and Providence at Amica Mutual Pavilion. The game tips off at 7:30 p.m. ET on truTV.
This story was originally published by The Spun on Feb 24, 2026, where it first appeared in the College Basketball section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.