St. John’s coach Rick Pitino and Kansas coach Bill Self are set to face off in the NCAA tournament in San Diego. Both coaches have successfully adapted to significant changes in college basketball over their careers. Pitino, at age 73, is the oldest head coach in Division I men's basketball and has embraced the transfer portal. Self, who has won over 800 games in his career, has kept Kansas at a high level and recruited freshman guard Darryn Peterson. Despite recent changes to the game, Pitino has managed to adapt and thrive under the pressure of time. Since 2024, players have been allowed to transfer without restriction and players can earn money for the first time from their names, images and likenesses.