Kevin Willard Accepts Villanova Head Coaching Job After Maryland Exit

Willard's move follows public dissatisfaction with Maryland's athletic support and marks his return to the Big East Conference.

Kevin Willard has officially accepted Villanova University's offer to become its next head basketball coach, with an announcement expected soon.
Willard departs Maryland after three seasons, including leading the team to its first Sweet 16 appearance since 2016 this year.
His decision comes after publicly expressing frustrations with Maryland's lack of NIL funding and administrative challenges, further complicated by the departure of athletic director Damon Evans.
Villanova, which has struggled since Jay Wright's retirement in 2022, seeks to rebuild its basketball program with Willard's leadership and Big East experience.
Maryland had offered Willard a new contract with increased resources, but he declined, citing a desire for fundamental changes that were not addressed.