Josh Hart, the charismatic New York Knicks star, has warmly endorsed the recent coaching shift at Villanova University. Following a three-year hiatus from the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, Villanova has entrusted Kevin Willard with the head coach role, replacing Kyle Neptune. Hart, who played four seasons at Villanova under renowned coach Jay Wright, expressed confidence that Willard is the perfect fit for the Wildcats.
“I’m super excited,” Hart commented, after the Knicks secured a 105-91 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers. Reflecting on past encounters with Willard, he remarked, “Kevin was at Seton Hall when I was playing and I admired him. I hated playing against him because he was a hell of a competitor, had a tough team, a physical team, and he’s going to bring that back to Nova. So I’m super excited to have him at the alma mater, and I know the Nova Nation should be excited.”
Kevin Willard, a native of Huntington, NY, comes to Villanova fresh from leading the Maryland Terrapins to a Sweet 16 berth. His resume includes successful stints at Iona and Seton Hall. Villanova fans are well-acquainted with his competitive edge thanks to thrilling matchups during the late 2010s. Notably, Willard’s Seton Hall team bested Villanova, featuring now Knicks teammates Hart, Mikal Bridges, and Jalen Brunson, in the 2016 Big East Men’s Basketball Tournament final.
Villanova, however, quickly bounced back to claim the national championship that year and avenged their loss by defeating Seton Hall in the Big East final three years later, achieving a historic three-peat at Madison Square Garden. Seton Hall’s 2016 victory was the sole interruption in Villanova’s five-year title streak.
As the Knicks triumphed over the 76ers, Villanova embarked on their journey in the inaugural College Basketball Crown tournament in Las Vegas. Under temporary coach Mike Nardi, another former Villanova backcourt standout, the Wildcats defeated Colorado 85-64. Eric Dixon’s scoring prowess was a highlight, succeeding Kerry Kittles as the program’s leading scorer.
This coaching change signifies a new chapter for Villanova with the arrival of Kevin Willard. The potential for revitalization under his guidance excites fans and alumni like Josh Hart, who anticipate a resurgence of the fierce competitiveness that once defined Villanova basketball. As this dynamic unfolds, all eyes will be on Villanova’s progress and its impact on college basketball’s competitive landscape.
