Kyle Neptune’s tenure as Villanova’s head coach has come under scrutiny, particularly after a disappointing start to the 2024–25 season. Following losses to Columbia, Saint Joseph’s, and Virginia, the Wildcats are sitting at 2–3, leaving fans questioning whether Neptune is the right fit to lead the program. His overall record since taking over in April 2022 is underwhelming for a program accustomed to competing for Big East titles and NCAA Tournament glory.
The decision to fire Neptune, however, would come with a hefty financial price tag. Here’s a breakdown of his contract, salary, buyout, and incentives.
Kyle Neptune Contract and Salary
- Annual Salary: $4.4 million.
- Contract Length: Estimated 6 years, from April 2022 through April 2028.
Kyle Neptune Buyout Estimate
Buyouts are typically calculated as a percentage of the remaining guaranteed salary. Here’s how Kyle Neptune’s buyout could breakdown based on our estimates:
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If Fired in 2024:
- Remaining Contract: $13.2 million (3 years).
- 75% Buyout: $9.9 million.
- 100% Buyout: $13.2 million.
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If Fired in 2025:
- Remaining Contract: $8.8 million (2 years).
- 75% Buyout: $6.6 million.
- 100% Buyout: $8.8 million.
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If Fired in 2026:
- Remaining Contract: $4.4 million (1 year).
- 75% Buyout: $3.3 million.
- 100% Buyout: $4.4 million.
Kyle Neptune Incentives
Incentives likely tied to Neptune’s contract include (our numbers are rough estimates based on contracts of other coaches in a similar salary range):
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NCAA Tournament Bonuses:
- $50,000 for making the tournament.
- $75,000 for reaching the Round of 32.
- $100,000 for the Sweet 16.
- $150,000 for the Elite Eight.
- $200,000 for the Final Four.
- $300,000 for winning the championship.
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Big East Performance:
- $50,000 for winning the regular season title.
- $50,000 for winning the conference tournament.
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Awards:
- $100,000 for National Coach of the Year recognition.
Why Villanova Could Fire Kyle Neptune
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Results:
- Record since hiring: 36–37 as of now, with no sustained success.
- Missed the NCAA Tournament last season.
- Poor start in 2024–25, including losses to Columbia and Saint Joseph’s.
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Fan Expectations:
- Villanova fans expect national relevance, deep tournament runs, and Big East dominance. Neptune’s teams have fallen short.
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Comparisons to Jay Wright:
- Wright left a legacy of success (two national championships, consistent Big East dominance). Neptune’s tenure feels like a steep decline.
If Villanova were to fire Kyle Neptune without cause, the buyout cost would likely range between $9.9 million and $13.2 million in 2024, depending on the percentage of the remaining contract guaranteed. By 2025, the figure drops to $6.6 million to $8.8 million. While costly, Villanova might see it as a necessary move to salvage the program’s elite status.
