The Official Rick (Dad) Pitino Thread

[BarnBoy]

Any interesting angles here?

Intriguing that our new coach has been tutored by Donovan and Pitino, two of the top 10 (maybe 5) active coaches.

What role do you see dad playing? Occasional phone call? Advice on how to structure his coaching staff? None at all?

My dream scenario: Rick wins the national championship and then comes to MN to be his sons assistant. Yes, I know I am delusional.

 

[Gopher07]

In a story I read earlier, it mentioned Rick and Rich talked quite often last year while he was at FIU, about coaching, etc. I imagine it will be the same here

 

[scher215]

Rick Pitino as associate head coach. I dare Tyus to say no to that!

 

[BarnBoy]

Richard Pitino calls his father every day - Rick Pitino usually watches games online, and by the time his kid gets to check his phone, a postgame critique is waiting. And he talks to Donovan nearly as often.

"The great thing about Billy and my dad, they're always willing to give me advice,'' Pitino said. "They understand where I'm at. I call Billy every single day, almost like I call my dad, and I'm so appreciative that they give the time to try to teach me. It's so exciting. For me, I can't try to be Billy Donovan, I can't try to be Rick Pitino. I've got to be my own man and play my own style, and it's been fun trying to figure it out.''

Richard Pitino working a quick turnaround at FIU
http://www.wdrb.com/story/21236781/richard-pitino-working-a-quick-turnaround-at-fiu

 

[jaymil]

Seems to me that Billy Donovan almost plays a bigger "mentor" role than his dad. The Louisville guy on KFAN even said Richard is more like Donovan as far as temperment and coaching style.

 

[Mikie S]

Seems to me that Billy Donovan almost plays a bigger "mentor" role than his dad. The Louisville guy on KFAN even said Richard is more like Donovan as far as temperment and coaching style.

Woody is sticking with what works:
Anthony Grant and Shaka Smart both were recruited directly from Billy Donovan's staff. Now Rich Pitino is only a year removed from being a Donovan assistant.