Mashburn: Pitino ‘One of the GREATEST Coaches’

Mashburn Praises Pitino’s Coaching Genius

Jamal Mashburn, the former NBA star, recently joined The Rich Eisen Show and didn’t hold back his admiration for his former college coach, Rick Pitino. Mashburn called Pitino “one of the greatest coaches of all time,” drawing comparisons to legendary NBA coach Pat Riley.

Mashburn explained that his relationship with Pitino goes back to Providence, where Pitino was coaching. Pitino started recruiting Mashburn when he was a standout high school player. Mashburn recalled attending Five-Star Camp, a prestigious basketball event, where Pitino offered individual coaching. Even though other coaches like Herb Sendek, Billy Donovan, and Tubby Smith were part of Pitino’s staff, Mashburn always felt Pitino’s unique teaching ability.

Pitino’s Coaching Style: Teacher vs. CEO

When comparing Pitino to Pat Riley, Mashburn described Pitino as more of a “teacher.” He sees Riley as more of a “CEO” of the team. Mashburn believes Pitino’s strength lies in his ability to develop players individually, a skill he still employs today.

Mashburn noted that Pitino’s current team at St. John’s plays a more physical style than his usual teams. Typically, Pitino’s teams are known for their three-point shooting. Mashburn pointed out that Pitino was a pioneer of the three-point era in college basketball during his time at Providence and Kentucky. However, the current St. John’s team, with players like Zubie Etchfor and Jordan Hopkins, focuses more on getting to the basket and rebounding.

“He’s not surprised at all. I think he’s one of the greatest coaches of all time,” Mashburn said about Pitino’s success.

Remembering the Duke Rivalry

The conversation also touched upon the classic Duke vs. Kentucky rivalry, specifically the 1992 Elite Eight game. Mashburn vividly remembers the game, calling it one of the best college basketball games ever played. He recalled Grant Hill being a great player and friend from their early days.

Mashburn admired how both Hall of Fame coaches, Mike Krzyzewski and Rick Pitino, let their players compete at a high level without excessive play-calling. He wishes St. John’s could get a victory against Duke, referencing a quote from Pitino after St. John’s beat Kansas: “Maybe we could beat Duke at the buzzer.”

If Mashburn could relive that 1992 game, his biggest regret would be fouling out. He believes that if he had stayed in the game, the outcome might have been different. He also highlighted Christian Laettner’s incredible performance, going 10-for-10 from the field and 10-for-10 from the free-throw line. Mashburn felt Laettner was like the Michael Jordan of college basketball at that time.

Looking Ahead: NCAA Tournament Predictions

Mashburn also shared his thoughts on the NCAA Tournament. He sees a tough matchup between UConn and Michigan State, expecting a “gritty rock fight.” He admires Tom Izzo’s consistent success at Michigan State and praises UConn’s guard, Jalen Spencer.

For the Final Four, Mashburn believes Arizona has the best chance to win the championship. He also expects Houston to make the Final Four. He sees a potential championship game between Arizona and Duke, though he acknowledges Duke’s recent health issues.

Mashburn also spoke highly of Michigan’s coach, Dusty May, and his ability to get his players to bond as a team. He mentioned Cameron Boozer as a key player for Duke, a winner throughout his career.

Reflections on NBA Legends

The interview concluded with Mashburn sharing memories of NBA legends Pat Riley, Kobe Bryant, and Stuart Scott.

He described his reconnecting with Pat Riley as a man-to-man relationship, where Riley admitted he might have been too hard on him as a player. Mashburn appreciates Riley’s evolution and continued wisdom.

Regarding Kobe Bryant, Mashburn saw him as the closest player to Michael Jordan, praising his work ethic, toughness, and detailed approach. He sadly noted that Kobe’s potential was cut short.

Finally, Mashburn recalled his early days at ESPN with Stuart Scott, marveling at how Scott made complex commentary seem effortless through his preparation. He emphasized Scott’s ability to be himself on air and use cultural references effectively.

Mashburn continues to be a fan of Rich Eisen and looks forward to watching the rest of the basketball season unfold.

Source: Jamal Mashburn says Rick Pitino is one of ‘the GREATEST coaches of ALL TIME!’ | The Rich Eisen Show (YouTube)