Rick Pitino was named the new head basketball coach at Iona.

"I am delighted to welcome Rick Pitino to Gael Nation. Rick is a Hall of Fame coach who has won at the highest levels and he is committed to leading our student-athletes and our program to national prominence. He brings passion and energy and shares our desire to build a winning program that will make our community proud," said Iona Athletic Director Matthew Glovaski.

Pitino replaces Tim Cluess, who stepped down due to health reasons on Friday.

Pitino last coached in college in 2017 before getting fired by Louisville following an FBI investigation.

"My passion in basketball started in New York and will end there at Iona College. Tim Cluess has done a spectacular job creating success and a winning spirit. I wish Tim a speedy recovery and Iona will always cherish his accomplishments. At Iona, I will work with the same passion, hunger and drive that I've had for over forty years. There is a real professionalism in how things are run here and this is a very tight, strong community," said Pitino.