Kevin Willard recently left Villanova for Maryland. The goal was to build a strong team and lead his program to success. But the loss of a key recruit, Ramon Soyoye, looms large. Moreover, he could be losing this star to his former team.
Kevin Willard’s Maryland-Villanova Battle for Ramon Soyoye
After the 2024–25 season, Willard left Maryland for Villanova. The decision came after his team lost in the Sweet 16 to Florida. Although he had worked for three years at Maryland, the end of his time came with many controversies.
Willard believed the program’s resources were not channeled in the right direction. After months of speculation, he finally left Maryland and took over at Villanova. Buzz Williams replaced him, and life seems to be picking up again under the new coach.
Class of 2025 big man Ramon Soyoye has been a hot prospect, pursued by top programs. He has recently visited both Villanova and Maryland, and these visits highlight his potential as a game-changer. Soyoye will soon be visiting Baylor and Texas Tech and hopes to join one of these top teams soon.
Willard is an experienced coach, and his presence and background have made Villanova a top contender for Soyoye. But he is not the only one hoping to land the 6’10” big man. Maryland also needs a post presence, and Soyoye’s size and skills fit what Maryland wants. The team is rebuilding and needs to replace Chris Jeffries, who recently left.
Complexity of Soyoye’s Recruitment
What could have been an easy signature for Kevin Willard Villanova’s team is becoming more complex daily. Soyoye’s visit to several programs means there are many contenders for his signature. Now, more than one program is hoping to land him, reducing Willard’s chances of signing him.
Currently, other programs look more exciting and have solid players who can complement Soyoye’s skills. Villanova will now have to bring in more signings and improve the team to make its offer more appealing.
In addition, Soyoye impressed during his visit to Maryland, which boosted their interest in this skillful player.
Soyoye will soon visit the other programs before considering any offer. No one knows where he will kickstart his college career, but playing time, team quality, and coaching fit will influence his decision more than anything else.
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Willard does not want to lose Soyoye, especially not to Maryland. Now is the time to put everything on the table, and Willard must convince Soyoye that he is the best coach to guide his future.
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