Villanova Hires Kevin Willard to Begin Program Rebuild on Monday
Kevin Willard has officially begun his tenure as head coach of the Villanova Wildcats, tasked with the challenge of rebuilding the program. He was hired after the dismissal of Kyle Neptune, who struggled in his three seasons at the helm, leading to Villanova’s decision to pursue a fresh direction.
Villanova’s Coaching Change
Kevin Willard’s move to Villanova comes after leaving the University of Maryland. His shift generated significant attention, particularly regarding reactions from Maryland fans. At the Big East media day, he addressed queries about potential protests from those fans during Villanova’s road game against Georgetown. Willard responded lightheartedly, indicating his support for Georgetown coach Ed Cooley’s budget, implying he welcomed the added ticket sales.
New Era for the Wildcats
Entering the new season, Willard’s coaching style differs markedly from his predecessor. While Kyle Neptune relied on repetitive slogans, Willard brings a more open and unfiltered approach to communication. This change is seen as an attempt to revitalize a program that has underperformed in recent years.
Season Outlook
As the season kicks off, the Wildcats will face No. 8 Brigham Young University in Las Vegas. Willard aims to transform Villanova’s narrative amidst substantial roster changes and uncertainty.
Key Roster Changes
- Only junior guard Tyler Perkins returns as a scorer from last season.
- Transfers and freshmen fill the roster, with many new contributors expected.
- Key players to watch include top-rated freshman point guard Acaden Lewis and graduate transfer Devin Askew.
Willard expressed a desire for a 10-man rotation when fully healthy. He acknowledged the steep learning curve ahead, especially given the team’s inexperience and the unfamiliarity with Big East competition.
Community Engagement
Willard’s approach emphasizes community engagement, a contrast to Neptune’s more closed-off style. His willingness to connect with fans and fellow students is seen as crucial for the program’s identity. Villanova athletic director Eric Roedl noted that Willard’s interactions have begun to foster stronger ties within the community.
Expectations Moving Forward
The Wildcats have not appeared in the NCAA tournament for three consecutive years, making Willard’s assignment urgent. Villanova’s administration believes that aligning the basketball program with the university community will be vital. Roedl expressed positivity about the program’s future trajectory under Willard’s leadership, stating, “We got to win.” As the regular season begins, Villanova hopes to regain its status as a competitive force in college basketball.
Villanova’s journey into the new season starts Monday. The Wildcats aim to redefine their identity and emerge as a dominant program once again under Willard’s guidance.
