Kevin Willard doesn’t expect to replicate what he’s done earlier in his coaching career at Villanova, not even in terms of his playing style. He plans to adapt to the new conditions and build the most competitive team possible.
Kevin Willard Flaunts His Adaptability at Villanova
The experienced coach addressed the issue during an interview for the latest edition of the “Field of 68” podcast. Willard explained his philosophy in detail, which, while adaptable, won’t completely abandon the style Villanova had under the legendary Jay Wright.
“I think you have to adapt to your roster every year,” Willard said.
“You’re just not going to be able to play the same way. I’ve already gone like, you know, we have a lineup that’s going to be really small. And last year at Maryland, we were really big.
“So I’m not going to be able to play the same way we did last year. I think I’m just going to adapt my style every year to the type of guys that we have.
“But we will still, we’re going to be extremely physical, extremely tough. I think that still matches Villanova.”
Willard took over as Villanova’s head coach, replacing Kyle Neptune, who held the position for three seasons. Neptune, for his part, replaced the legendary Jay Wright when he retired in 2022 after 21 seasons at the helm of the Wildcats.
While Willard spoke of the adaptability he needs to get the most out of Villanova, that in no way means he lacks the necessary talent to succeed. On the contrary, the Wildcats have prepared themselves well for next season.
Among the team’s key figures is expected to be Tyler Perkins, the most experienced returning player for the Wildcats. Perkins averaged 6.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.0 assists in 36 games last season, including a 20-point showing against Xavier.
However, the team’s results will largely depend on the talent that arrived via the transfer portal. This includes Malachi Palmer and Braden Pierce, who followed Willard from Maryland.
Palmer is a 6’6″ guard who averaged 1.6 points and 1.4 rebounds in 22 games last season, while Pierce is a 7’0″ center who redshirted last season, although he played in five games, averaging 2.4 points and 2.4 rebounds per game.
Other players expected to play significant roles on the team include Duke Brennan, Malcolm Flaggs, Zion Stanford, and freshmen Acaden Lewis, Chris Jeffrey, and Nico Onyekwere.
