Villanova University has reportedly hired Kevin Willard, the former head coach of Maryland’s basketball team, as its new head coach. Willard, who led Maryland to two NCAA Tournament trips and a Sweet 16 appearance, is set to take over the Wildcats program following the departure of Kyle Neptune.
Before his time at Maryland, Willard spent 12 years coaching at Seton Hall in the Big East, where he led the Pirates to five NCAA Tournaments in six seasons. Willard’s move to Villanova was influenced by his desire to return to his Northeast roots and be closer to his home state of New Jersey.
Willard’s departure from Maryland was reportedly due to his strained relationship with the athletic department, particularly interim athletic director Colleen Sorem. Despite Maryland’s efforts to make Willard one of the highest-paid coaches in the country, the 49-year-old coach made the decision to move to Villanova for personal reasons.
Villanova fans can expect Willard to bring his experience and success to the program in hopes of continuing the legacy established by former coach Jay Wright. With a strong track record in the Big East and recent success at Maryland, Willard’s appointment as head coach is expected to bring a new era of success to the Wildcats basketball program.
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