Watch: Jeff Capel, Ish Leggett, Jaland Lowe Talk Prep Ahead of Opener

Capel and the guard duo discussed what the team has learned from its secret scrimmage against Cincinnati and exhibition against Point Park.

“Pittsburgh toughness” on defense was mentioned by Leggett and Lowe and how important playing with physicality will be this year for the Panthers.

Capel also provided comments on wing Amsal Delalic’s status and his hand injury that he suffered during the offseason.

Pitt is heading into year seven of the Jeff Capel-era, coming off a second-straight 20-win season. The Panthers finished last year 22-11, but said goodbye to stars Bub Carrington (Washington Wizards) and Blake Hinson (Golden State Warriors) as they went off to the professional level. In addition, the Panthers said goodbye to Federiko Federiko (Texas Tech) and William Jeffress (Louisiana Tech), as both players transferred out this past spring.

Pitt men’s basketball returns key players Lowe, Leggett, and Zack Austin, among others. The staff also brought in a talented group of newcomers, headlined by transfers Cam Corhen (Florida State) and Damian Dunn (Houston) as well as freshmen Brandin “Beebah” Cummings, Amdy Ndiaye, and Delalic.

The Panthers were selected No. 7 in the Preseason ACC Preseason Poll. In addition, Pitt guard Ishmael Leggett was selected for Second Team All-ACC.

Stay tuned for the latest on Pitt basketball on Pittsburgh Sports Now all season long.