Ithiel Horton plans to stay at Pitt despite transfer rumor

Pitt shooting guard Ithiel Horton announced on Thursday that he will be staying at Pitt despite a rumor regarding his social media activity. The announcement was the difference between a tough but manageable rebuild and an exodus not seen at Pitt since the Kevin Stallings era.

“We can put this social media rumor to rest,” Horton said in a statement. “I am just getting started here. I have learned a lot and grown as a player in my first year playing at Pitt and competing in the ACC. I am eager to continue to develop with my teammates and coaches as we build this program up.”

Prior to the announcement, it was pointed out by Jim Hammett of Panther Lair that Horton had “deleted all posts on his Instagram and any mention of Pitt.” That was followed by a post from a less reputable source claiming to have inside information about Horton transferring. However, that claim proved inaccurate.

Horton transferred to Pitt from Delaware in 2019 and sat out for a season before taking the court. During his year off, Pitt head coach Jeff Capel described him as “as good as anyone on our team.” He had an opportunity to prove his coach right this season as a regular starter for the Panthers, and while he did shoot well from beyond the arc from time to time, he also struggled with consistency.

The 6’3”, 200-pound shooting guard finished his first season at Pitt with averages of 8.9 points, 2.3 rebounds and 1.6 assists per game. He also shot 37.1 percent from three-point range and made 75.0 percent of his free throws. Late in the season, Horton struggled with costly fouls and saw his minutes reduced. But given his ability as a shooter, he should play a key role for Pitt again next season.