PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- Rick Pitino, an assistant coach with the New York Knicks the last two seasons, Friday was named head basketball coach at Providence College, succeeding Joe Mullaney.
Pitino was flanked at the news conference at the school by Rev. Thomas Peterson and Lou Lamoriello, the athletic director.
Mullaney announced his retirement in February after coaching 18 seasons at the school. He will remain as an associate athletic director.
Pitino was the head coach at Boston University from 197-83. His record was 91-51 and he guided the Terriers to the NCAA Tournament and the National Invitation Tournament. He was twice named New England coach of the year.
'He possesses all the qualities and attributes that we as a college were looking for in a coach,' Lamoriello said. 'He's a hard worker, a proven recruiter and I am pleased he's decided to join our family.'
Pitino, a 1974 graduate of the University of Massachussetts, said he intends to upgrade recruiting at Providence while bringing a running game to the Friars.
'With the Big East Conference the best in college basketball and the great tradition at Providence I feel I have the best job in college basketball,' he said.
