BY ALEJANDRO LOPEZ There a lot of factors that go into winning games in college basketball. But in 2026 perhaps none of those factors are larger than a team’s NIL budget. St. John’s head coach Rick Pitino credits the budget differential as the difference between his program and the team his son, Richard Pitino, coaches at Xavier. “Real proud of the team, but actually … [Read more...] about Rick Pitino says son has ‘no budget’ but ‘out-coached his dad two times’
Xavier
Four-star forward Joe Philon announces top five schools
By JAMES MADDEN Four-star forward Joe Philon announced his top five schools on Friday, Joe Tipton first reported. The 6-foot-9 senior from Montverde Academy (FL) is down to UCLA, Xavier, UNLV, Ohio State and South Florida. Philon recently played in the City of Palms Classic in Fort Myers, where he broke down two of the schools most heavily involved in his recruitment … [Read more...] about Four-star forward Joe Philon announces top five schools
Three-star Class of 2026 prospect Asher Elson commits to Xavier
BY ALEJANDRO LOPEZ Xavier has secured a commitment from a standout forward in the Class of 2026. Three-star prospect Asher Elson of Brooklyn South Shore will join the Musketeers as a member of the 2026 recruiting class, he announced on Wednesday. He chose Xavier over Syracuse, Maryland and Auburn. “Great kid, gym rat, has a huge upside, will be a pro someday,” … [Read more...] about Three-star Class of 2026 prospect Asher Elson commits to Xavier
First Pitino vs. Pitino Big East battle date set
BY ALEJANDRO LOPEZ The first meeting of the father and son rivalry in the BIG EAST has been determined, according to Jon Rothstein. St. John’s and Rick Pitino will visit Xavier on Jan. 24 at the Cintas Center. Rick Pitino is 3-1 in meetings against his son, Richard Pitino, but this meeting will mark the first time the two face each other as conference opponents. … [Read more...] about First Pitino vs. Pitino Big East battle date set
Class of 2026 point guard Rajan Roberts talks recruitment, high school transfer
By JAMES MADDEN & SAM LANCE NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C — Class of 2026 three-star point guard Rajan Roberts has garnered interest from a variety of high-level programs this summer after a strong EYBL campaign with Meanstreets. Originally from Chicago, Roberts is entering his senior year at AZ Compass Prep (AZ) after transferring from Prolific Prep (CA). The 6-foot-1 guard is a … [Read more...] about Class of 2026 point guard Rajan Roberts talks recruitment, high school transfer