Jay Wright

Jay Wright became one of college basketball’s most respected coaches through his time at Villanova, where he built a modern powerhouse.

Known for his sharp suits and even sharper basketball mind, Wright led the Wildcats to two NCAA championships (2016, 2018) and four Final Four appearances. His teams were known for their unselfish play, strong defense, and three-point shooting.

Over 21 seasons at Villanova, he compiled over 600 career wins, won multiple Big East titles, and developed numerous NBA players. Though he never coached in the NBA, his influence on the pro game is visible through the success of his players and coaching philosophy.

He retired from coaching in 2022 and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2021.

Wright's Awards and Records

• 2 NCAA Division I tournament (2016, 2018)
• 4 NCAA Division I regional—Final Four (2009, 2016, 2018, 2022)
• 2 America East tournament (2000, 2001)
• 2 America East regular season (2000, 2001)
• 5 Big East tournament (2015, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2022)
• 8 Big East regular season (2006, 2014–2017, 2019, 2021)
• 2× Naismith College Coach of the Year (2006, 2016)
• NABC Coach of the Year (2006)
• John R. Wooden Legends of Coaching Award (2018)
• AP Coach of the Decade (2010s)
• 2× America East Coach of the Year (2000, 2001)
• 6× Big East Coach of the Year (2006, 2009, 2014–2016, 2019)

NBA Teams

Rochester (assistant) 1984–1986
Drexel (assistant) 1986–1987
Villanova (assistant) 1987–1992
UNLV (assistant) 1992–1994
Hofstra 1994–2001
Villanova 2001–2022

Career Stats