Stephen Thompson: Pitt's path back to winning basketball may take more than 1 season

Stephen Thompson: Pitt's Path Back to Winning Basketball

The last time Jeff Capel had to rebuild a roster as extensively as he just did was before the 2022-23 season. That offseason, transfer portal recruiting brought in Greg Elliott, Blake Hinson, and Nelly Cummings—players not initially seen as elite. However, combined with Jamarius Burton and Nike Sibande, two earlier recruits, Capel formed a core of experienced players whose average age rivaled some NBA teams.

This squad won 24 games, including two NCAA tournament victories, helping elevate the program from the lower ranks of the power conferences. Back then, Capel's continued tenure in Pittsburgh was uncertain; winning quickly was crucial. Importing experience was the easiest approach to achieve that goal.

Now, faced with a similar challenge—his contract nearing its end and external patience fading due to postseason disappointments—Capel’s current roster reflects a new approach. Instead of focusing solely on experience, Pitt aims to prioritize the future with a younger team.

"We need to play with the sense of urgency every second that we're out there on both sides of the floor," Capel said. "There has to be urgent talk, urgent movement. We have to be unbelievably connected."

Capel sounds like a coach ready to build strong habits in a young roster, emphasizing energy and connection over immediate wins.

Summary

Jeff Capel's latest rebuilding effort at Pitt focuses on developing a young, energetic team with urgency and connection, aiming for long-term success beyond a single season.

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LancasterOnline LancasterOnline — 2025-11-03

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