Going above and beyond seems to be in Kyle Neptune’s upbringing. 

When Villanova’s new men’s basketball coach was a kid, he had to write a book report on one of three topics. Neptune’s mom made him do one on all three, writes Michael Bradley for Main Line Today.

It was all about being out of your comfort zone.

Neptune has worked closely alongside retired coach Jay Wright, often handling the team when Wright entertained guests or left for weeks working as an aide on Gregg Popovitch’s USA Basketball staff.

He understands the Wildcat culture and the fundamental elements of Jay’s success, so he’s got that comfort zone.

Even so, there’s a lot of pressure on the former assistant coach, who’s charged with keeping the Wildcats winning big, helping the university maintain its national profile through basketball.

Wright’s assessment?

“He’s been ready for a couple of years. He went away and got a year’s experience at Fordham, and he came back with experience.”

“It’s a huge responsibility,” says Wright about coaching at Nova. “That’s another reason why it’s important to have a person who’s part of the family—and not just a basketball coach.”

Read more about Kyle Neptune at Main Line Today.