The Pitino name echoes through college basketball once again in 2025. While Rick Pitino’s St. John’s squad bowed out of the NCAA Tournament in the second round, his son Richard is stealing the spotlight. Leading the New Mexico Lobos, he was close to a Sweet 16 spot as a double-digit seed. Here’s everything you need to know about the younger Pitino.
Richard Pitino Adding More Shine to His Family’s Name
Richard, born September 16, 1982, isn’t new to the sidelines. At 42, he’s carved his path as head coach of the New Mexico Lobos since 2021. His team, seeded 10th, stunned Marquette 75-66 in the first round.
Now, they face 2-seed Michigan State with a chance to outshine his father’s tournament run this year. Rick, watching from the stands Sunday night, must be proud—and maybe a little nervous.
Richard’s coaching journey started at Florida International in 2012-13, where he posted an 18-14 record. He then took the reins at Minnesota for eight seasons, peaking with an NIT title in 2014.
Since landing in New Mexico, he’s turned heads. The Lobos have hit the NCAA Tournament two years running. This season, they boast a 27-7 record and their first tournament win since 2012.
His ties to Rick go beyond blood. Richard served as an assistant under his dad at Louisville twice, first from 2007-09 and then as associate head coach from 2011-12. Between those stints, he polished his skills under Billy Donovan at Florida. “Like father, like son,” critics said, pointing to their shared knack for the game and striking resemblance.
New Mexico’s success isn’t a stroke of luck. Richard led them to a Mountain West regular season title in 2024, finishing 17-3 in conference play. That 25-6 regular season mark tied a league record for wins. His .598 winning percentage with the Lobos tops his earlier stops at Minnesota (.534) and FIU (.563). He’s making his name in Albuquerque.
KEEP READING: ‘You Gave Us a Magical Run’ — Rick Pitino Expresses Gratitude to St. John’s Seniors
Before coaching, Richard managed Providence College’s team while earning a history degree in 2005. He also assisted at St. Andrew’s School in Rhode Island. Those early days laid the groundwork for a career blooming in the desert. Win or lose against Michigan State, Richard Pitino is proving he’s more than just Rick’s son; he’s a force of his own.
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