Richard Pitino spent less than 24 hours unemployed. He was fired by the University of Minnesota, with the Gophers making it formal and public late Monday night. On Tuesday, he’s already been named the new head coach at the University of New Mexico.
CBS Sports’ Jon Rothstein and Stadium.com’s Jeff Goodman were the first to report that Pitino has been hired at New Mexico, with Goodman saying a formal announcement is expected later Tuesday.
Minnesota parted ways with Pitino after eight seasons. He led the Gophers to the NCAA tournament two times, winning one game at the tourney.
Pitino reportedly interviewed for the New Mexico job last weekend, clearly aware that his departure from Minnesota was imminent.
One of my favorite pictures. Always wanted to represent Minnesota the right way on a daily basis with class and integrity. Thank you for a special 8 years. Fired up for what the future holds! pic.twitter.com/mUgM8Dpao9
— Richard Pitino (@LoboCoachPitino) March 16, 2021
Minnesota is now in the process of hiring its next head coach.
