Stephen Thompson: Pitt's path back to winning basketball may take more than 1 season

Stephen Thompson: Pitt's Path Back to Winning Basketball

The last time Jeff Capel undertook a major roster overhaul like the recent one was before the 2022-23 season. Through transfer portal recruiting during that offseason, he brought in Greg Elliott, Blake Hinson, and Nelly Cummings—a group not highly regarded at the time. However, combined with Jamarius Burton and Nike Sibande, who had joined in earlier years, Capel created a veteran core whose collective experience rivaled some NBA teams.

This team won 24 games, including two NCAA tournament victories, lifting the program from its low standing in the power conferences. Despite this success, Capel’s long-term future in Pittsburgh was uncertain; immediate, significant wins were essential, and bringing in experienced players was the quickest way to achieve that.

Roster Changes Reflect Shifted Priorities

Faced with a similar challenge this offseason, with his contract nearing its end and outside patience wearing thin due to postseason shortcomings, Capel’s current roster shows a different approach. Pitt seems to be focusing on the near future, emphasizing development rather than immediate results.

"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."

Capel’s comments reveal his eagerness to foster good habits in a young team ready to embrace a new season.

Summary

Jeff Capel’s previous rebuild led Pitt to notable success quickly, but his latest roster reflects a longer-term vision focused on growth and urgency from a youthful squad.

LancasterOnline — 2025-11-03