ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — New Mexico Lobo men’s basketball head coach Richard Pitino is leaving the University of New Mexico and heading to Xavier University.

Xavier is a member of the Big East Conference, which includes St. John’s where his dad, Rick Pitino, is a coach. That means Pitino vs. Pitino will take place twice a year.

Richard Pitino is coming off a stellar year where the Lobos went 27-8. They beat Marquette in the NCAA tournament and pushed Michigan State all the way to the final seconds before falling short of the third round.

Pitino is getting a six-year deal. He posted this statement on social media:

“Thank you New Mexico!  I was down when I got here and you brought me back.  You treated me and my family so well.  Especially Jack!  I’m so grateful for my 4 years here.  We did this together.  We will cherish our time here.  Thank you and Go Lobos.”