Villanova Names Kevin Willard New Head Basketball Coach
Villanova University has appointed Kevin Willard, who led Maryland to a 27-9 record, as its new head basketball coach, bringing extensive coaching experience to the program.
Published on March 31, 2025
Villanova University announced on March 30, 2025, that Kevin Willard has been named the new head basketball coach, succeeding Kyle Neptune. Willard, who guided Maryland to a 27-9 record this season, decided to join Villanova despite Maryland’s attempts to retain him with contract extensions and salary increases.
The coach brings a wealth of experience from his previous stints, including leading Seton Hall to five NCAA Tournament appearances and winning a Big East title. Villanova's athletic director expressed optimism about the future of the program under Willard's leadership, marking a promising new chapter for the Wildcats.