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 roster rebuild as extensive as the current one was before the 2022-23 season. That offseason, transfer portal recruiting brought in Greg Elliott, Blake Hinson, and Nelly Cummings—players not initially considered elite. However, combined with Jamarius Burton and Nike Sibande, two transfers from earlier years, Capel formed a seasoned core whose combined experience rivaled some NBA teams.

This group went on to win 24 games, including two NCAA tournament victories, elevating the program from the bottom ranks of the power conferences. At that time, Capel’s continued tenure at Pitt was uncertain. Winning quickly was essential, and bringing in experienced players was the most straightforward way to achieve that.

Current Roster Strategy

Facing a similar situation this offseason—with a contract nearing its end and waning external patience after postseason disappointments—Capel’s current roster reflects a different approach. Pitt is now focused on its near future as a guiding principle.

"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."

His words reveal a coach dedicated to building good habits in a young team rather than simply importing experience as before.

Summary

Capel’s rebuilding effort at Pitt shifts from quick fixes through seasoned transfers to long-term growth focused on young players developing urgency and connection on the court.

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LancasterOnline — 2025-11-02