Minnesota head coach Richard Pitino chews Ohio State guard CJ Walker (13) after NCAA college … [+]
PRESS ASSOCIATED
Richard Pitino is moving from Minnesota but is still “very much in the mix” for a head coaching position in New Mexico, a source said.
Stadium’s Jeff Goodman announced earlier Monday that Minnesota is expected to “part ways” with the youngest Pitino, the son of coach Iona Rick Pitino, who is ready to take the Highlanders into the NCAA Tournament this week.
One source said that Sam Mitchell, a former Minnesota Timberwolves player and interim head coach, is a popular choice among some Minnesotans instead of Pitino. Mitchell most recently was a supporter under Penny Hardaway in Memphis.
Richard Pitino, 38, went 141-123 in seven seasons at Big Ten school, making two NCAA Championship shows. He won the NIT championship in 2014. Minnesota finished 14-15 this season, 6-14 in the Big Ten.
Meanwhile, Pitino and former Nebraska coach Tim Miles are still in the mix for the New Mexico job after assistant coach Dr. Paul Weir retired two weeks ago after going 58-63 in the four seasons.
“I know I’m never going to make everyone happy, but I’m going to do everything I can to find someone who will represent this program. , leading this program with honors with the class, ”New Mexico AD Eddie Nunez told reporters.