Jeff Capel is set to return to Pittsburgh for a ninth season. On Friday, CBS Sports’ Jon Rothstein reported that the Panthers are planning to back Capel for the 2026-27 season.
However, when fans caught wind of Rothstein’s report, they had some wild reactions.
“I need a new team to root for,” one tweeted.
“That’s a terrible decision,” another added.
“Almost have to feel sorry for Pitt fans. Almost,” a third commented.
“This is somehow a worse decision than hiring Brandin Knight,” one wrote.
“Pitt is not a serious program. Sad!” another added.
“Breaking news: Pitt has missed the ncaa tournament for 2026-2027 season,” a user tweeted.
Pittsburgh’s Director of Athletics Allen Greene also issued a statement Monday, confirming Capel will return to the Panthers for next season.
“Over the past several months, I have spent a great deal of time evaluating every aspect of our men’s basketball program,” Greene wrote in a statement. “That process included conversations with Coach Capel, a review of our staff and our roster, our program structure and the transfer portal landscape as well as our investment in the program. I consulted with University leadership to ensure we continue to be aligned with our expectations for the program.
“After that comprehensive evaluation, I have made the decision that Jeff Capel will continue to lead our men’s basketball program. I believe our best path forward is leadership continuity paired with clear expectations and a willingness to evolve.”
Pittsburgh finished the 2025-26 season with a 13-20 (5-13 ACC) record.
Jeff Capel has led Pittsburgh to the NCAA Tournament Only Once in Eight Seasons
Pittsburgh hired Jeff Capel in 2018. He has compiled a 127-127 (60-92 ACC) record across the past eight seasons.
In eight seasons, Capel has led the Panthers to the NCAA Tournament just once, in 2023. Pittsburgh made it to the Round of 32 in March Madness.
Capel also won the ACC Coach of the Year in 2023.
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