Villanova Basketball Enters New Era Under Kevin Willard

RADNOR, Pa. — Villanova basketball is embarking on a new chapter as Kevin Willard takes the helm as head coach. Following a disappointing stretch where the Wildcats failed to make the NCAA Tournament for three consecutive seasons, optimism is beginning to return to Nova Nation.

Willard, who previously coached at Seton Hall and Maryland, aims to restore Villanova’s competitive spirit. The program’s recognizable “attitude,” emblematic of former coach Jay Wright‘s success, is a focal point for Willard. “I’m not here to change the culture,” he stated. “I just want to play winning basketball.”

Under Kyle Neptune, Villanova grappled with mediocrity, achieving a 54-47 record. Neptune’s dismissal followed another season without tournament success, prompting a shift in direction for the Wildcats. Willard has already made notable changes, including adjusting the recruitment philosophy to prioritize players with eligibility and development potential.

In recent recruitment news, two underclassmen from Maryland — guard Malachi Palmer and center Braden Pierce, both with three years of eligibility — have committed to Villanova. Palmer, a promising player recognized as the No. 2 recruit in Maryland, averaged 8.3 minutes per game for a strong Terrapins team. Willard praised his “tough, physical” play. Meanwhile, Pierce is viewed as a developing center with significant potential after battling injuries.

As the 2025-26 season approaches, Villanova prepares to open against Brigham Young University on Nov. 3 in Las Vegas, kicking off the Hall of Fame Series. This matchup holds historical significance, as Villanova leads the series 2-1 with their last encounter dating back to the 1984 season, when Villanova won the championship.

These changes bring renewed hope for Villanova, with a focus on rebuilding a program that once thrived in the NCAA tournament. With Willard’s leadership and a reestablished commitment to the foundational principles laid by Wright, the Wildcats aim to regain their status in college basketball.