Yes, St. John's coach Rick Pitino and New Mexico coach Richard Pitino are related, as Rick Pitino is Richard Pitino's father, if it wasn't obvious by the coaching chops and similar names. Rick Pitino was also in attendance for the Lobos' second-round game against Michigan State on Sunday night.

Xavier made it official Tuesday night when it announced the hiring of Richard Pitino as its next head coach. Xavier's offseason can start with Pitino forming his staff, and the process is already underway.

Richard Pitino spent one year as the head coach at Florida International and eight seasons at Minnesota before coming to New Mexico in 2021. He just finished his fourth year with the Lobos, and his final record is 88-49 with two NCAA Tournament trips. On Wednesday morning, Pitino took to X with a parting message to the New Mexico fans.