Pitt Men’s Basketball Season Preview
Staff writer Austin Lenhardt-Barley previews the Pitt men’s basketball season, highlighting many new faces on the team. The Panthers enter their eighth season under head coach Jeff Capel.
Coach Jeff Capel’s Tenure
Capel led Pitt to March Madness three seasons ago. His first four seasons resulted in a 51-59 record, but recent changes to the transfer portal have shifted the team’s trajectory. Over the past three seasons, Capel has achieved a 63-38 record, consistently finishing above .500.
Impact of Transfer Portal Rule
Before the 2022-2023 season, the NCAA allowed athletes to transfer once without sitting out a full season. This change brought impactful players to Pitt such as Blake Hinson, Nelly Cummings, and Greg Elliott, each averaging over 10 points per game during that season.
"Pitt going from an 11-21 record to the NCAA Tournament is special and not talked about enough — it happened because of how well Capel works with the transfer portal."
Capel’s ability to leverage the transfer portal has been key to building strong, competitive teams since the new rule took effect.
Key Returning Player: Corhen
The senior forward Corhen is back for his final season and second year with Pitt. He averaged 11 points and 5 rebounds last season, contributing as a reliable scorer and one of the team’s strongest defenders. Corhen is expected to provide leadership in his concluding season.