Jeff Capel Steps Down as Head Coach of Pitt Basketball

Capel Led Panthers to Two NCAA Tournament Appearances

After six seasons at the helm of the University of Pittsburgh men's basketball program, Jeff Capel has announced that he is stepping down as head coach.

Capel took over the program in 2018 and led the Panthers to two NCAA Tournament appearances, including a Sweet 16 appearance in 2021.

Capel's Tenure at Pitt

Capel's tenure at Pitt was marked by both success and challenges.

He led the Panthers to a 104-79 record, including a 52-46 mark in ACC play.

However, the Panthers failed to make the NCAA Tournament in Capel's first three seasons.

Capel's Successes

Capel's greatest success at Pitt came in 2021, when he led the Panthers to their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2016.

The Panthers upset No. 1 seed Wisconsin in the first round of the tournament before losing to No. 8 seed Michigan in the second round.

Capel also had success on the recruiting trail, landing several highly-rated recruits, including five-star forward Jalen Hood-Schifino.

Capel's Challenges

Capel's tenure at Pitt was also marked by challenges.

The Panthers struggled in ACC play, going 35-43 under Capel's leadership.

The Panthers also had several off-court issues during Capel's tenure, including the arrest of former guard Au'Diese Toney on drug charges.

Capel's Legacy

Capel's legacy at Pitt is likely to be mixed.

He led the Panthers to two NCAA Tournament appearances, but he also struggled to maintain consistency in ACC play.

Time will tell how Capel's tenure at Pitt will be ultimately judged.