Stephen Thompson: Pitt's Path Back to Winning Basketball
The last time Jeff Capel faced a roster rebuild as extensive as this one was before the 2022-23 season. During that offseason, transfer portal recruiting brought in Greg Elliott, Blake Hinson, and Nelly Cummings—a group not initially seen as elite. However, combined with Jamarius Burton and Nike Sibande, players he'd acquired earlier, Capel formed a core of experienced veterans whose average age rivaled some NBA teams.
This veteran group won 24 games, including two NCAA tournament victories, lifting the program from the lower ranks of power conferences. At that time, Capel's long-term future in Pittsburgh was uncertain; quick, significant wins were crucial. Importing experience was seen as the quickest way to achieve this.
Now, facing a similar challenge with Capel's contract nearing its end and external patience dwindling due to a lack of postseason success, the roster reflects a shift in approach. This offseason's team focuses on growth and long-term development rather than immediate results.
Building for the Future
Capel is eager to develop culture and discipline in a young team. He emphasizes urgency and connection on the court as foundational habits.
"We need to play with the sense of urgency every second that we're out there on both sides of the floor," Capel said. "There has to be urgent talk, urgent movement. We have to be unbelievably connected."
This philosophy marks a transition from relying on seasoned veterans to cultivating a cohesive, motivated young squad.
Summary
Jeff Capel’s rebuild at Pitt is shifting from experienced imports toward fostering urgency and connection in a young team, signaling a longer-term strategy beyond immediate wins.
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