Well it is official the University of Pittsburgh men’s basketball team will be without Jamie Dixon on the sidelines as head coach for the first time in 13 years. It was announced earlier today that Texas Christian University, his alma mater, would buyout his current contract for an undisclosed amount.
Coach Dixon began his head-coaching career when Ben Howland left after the 2002-03 season for UCLA. Since then Dixon has amassed a 328-123 record, while turning Pitt into a consistent basketball power by making the NCAA tournament in 11 of his 13 seasons.
Some of his other notable accomplishments during his over-decade long career were three Sweet Sixteen appearances, one Elite Eight, four national coach of the year awards, a number one overall associated press ranking, and a Big East Championship.
However, even with all that success Athletic Director, Scott Barnes, did not fight to keep Dixon, even lowering his buyout to make it more affordable for TCU. Dixon’s contract had him under Pitt control until 2023.
Why did Barnes let Dixon walk so easily one may ask?
For starters Dixon’s last five years have not been nearly as successful or consistent as his previous eight. Since the start of the 2011-12 campaign Pitt has won 64 percent of its’ game, while missing the NCAA Tournament twice in that time span. As well their record against ranked teams is an abysmal 7-26, while making it past the first round of the NCAA tournament once in three tries. Compare that to his first eight years, where is win percentage was 78.3, made the tournament every year and lost in the first round just once.
The declining nature of the program can easily be pointed as one reason for Dixon’s departure, but others like media and fan pressure are more possibilities.
Now it is still early, since the college basketball season has not ended, so it is difficult to tell what direction the program will go in. However, here are some coaching candidates that Pitt should take a look at, in no particular order.
Sean Miller- University of Arizona
Gregg Marshall- Wichita State University
Archie Miller- University of Dayton
Brandon Knight- University of Pittsburgh Assistant
Ben Howland- Mississippi State University
Chris Mack- Xavier University
Brad Underwood- Stephen F. Austin State University
Randy Bennett- St. Mary’s College
Rick Byrd- Belmont University
Michael Huger- Bowling Green State University
Matt McMahon- Murray State
Will Wade- VCU
Because it is so early Barnes has yet to announce any interview candidates, so this is all guesswork. Those are just some guys who have proven to be valuable possibilities.
One thing is fore sure though the end of a prosperous era in Pitt basketball has ended and uncertain future remains.
*Please feel free to comment if there is a coach you know of who could be a possible fit.