SAN DIEGO — Zuby Ejiofor Encourages Ian Jackson
On Friday, Zuby Ejiofor had some words of motivation for Ian Jackson. Just before Sunday’s game, Rick Pitino also took a moment to speak with the sophomore. Both emphasized one clear message: We need you.
And Jackson was all ears.
Hailing from the Bronx, he played a vital role in securing a narrow 67-65 victory for the No. 4 seed Johnnies against fourth-seeded Kansas State, making their way to the Sweet 16 for the first time since 1999. Coming off the bench, Jackson contributed 10 points in 20 minutes.
“It’s really special for me,” Jackson reflected. “As a New York kid, a Bronx kid, I grew up seeing St. John’s not being the most popular choice. What Coach P has done, the history we’re creating, and being able to do this with these players—I mean, it’s just really meaningful.”
On the defensive end, Jackson also held his ground against Kansas star Darrin Peterson, who is projected as a top NBA draft pick but managed just 5 of 15 shooting. Jackson truly made an impact in the game against the Jayhawks.
“I’m just really glad I could help make a difference in this win,” Jackson said, noting his transition from North Carolina State. “My teammates and coaches really trust me. That means a lot when I’m out there trying to contribute.”
As the game unfolded, St. John’s faced some questionable calls. In the first half, Ejiofor was fouled during a shot attempt, but officials deemed it a blocked shot by Kansas’s Florrie Vidunga.
Then, with just over a minute remaining in the second half and the Johnnies up by four, Kansas guard Cole Rosario rescued a missed shot that veered off course.
Unfortunately for Kansas, Rosario couldn’t regain his footing on the court. He did manage to tip the ball to Tre White, who scored with 1:01 left, cutting the lead to two points. This basket, though, arguably shouldn’t have counted.
St. John’s has now celebrated back-to-back 30-win seasons for the first time since the ’84-’85 and ’85-’86 outings. Remarkably, the Johnnies made 21 three-pointers over two NCAA Tournament matches—a record for consecutive games this season. Pitino has now become the fifth Division I coach with 10 wins in 30 games, joining the ranks of notable names like Mike Krzyzewski and Roy Williams.
