St. John’s Basketball Season Ends, but Future Looks Bright
St. John’s basketball season concluded on an emotional note, yet there’s a sense that the program’s revival is just beginning.
Mike Lepore, a prominent supporter of the Red Storm, mentioned in a conversation that he’s donated over $5 million to the team this year. He’s eager to continue supporting them after their 80-75 defeat to Duke in the Sweet 16.
“I’m excited about not just this year, but also next year,” Lepore shared in a video from St. John’s Athletics. “I’ve made commitments to (athletic director) Ed Kull, Rick Pitino, and the team for next year. We hope this effort isn’t limited to just one or two years—we’re looking to create a dynasty over the next five to ten years.”
In a nail-biting match on Friday, St. John’s gave it their all against Duke, the top seed, losing in their first Sweet 16 game since 1999. The Red Storm heads into next season as back-to-back champions in both the Big East regular season and conference tournament.
“I can’t express how much I despise losing!” Lepore tweeted. “Thanks to @RealPitino, @steve_masiello, @EdKullStJohnsAD, the coaching staff, and everyone who contributed to what was an unforgettable season.”
He also highlighted the team’s heart and tenacity, stating, “Going against the nation’s top team in the Sweet 16, we truly fought hard! That’s what St. John’s is about. Thank you to the players, especially Zubby Ejiofor, and to all our fans and supporters—Johnny Nation will return even bigger and better.”
In this current landscape of NCAA sports, securing commitments involves vigorous recruitment through the transfer portal, often supported by NIL funds largely sourced from Lepore and his peers. He encouraged others to contribute, even minimally. “Every bit helps,” he noted. “With NIL getting more competitive, I plan to do my part.”
Lepore expressed his motivations behind his investment, sharing his faith in Coach Pitino’s ability to elevate St. John’s while reminiscing about the program’s storied past in the 1980s. “Honestly, I’m not certain, but how does it sound?” he mused. “What’s critical for Rick, Steve Masiello, Ed Kull, and St. John’s to compete at the highest level?”
“Next year, our needs may change. If Rick calls me in the middle of the night asking for funds, I’m ready to act immediately because I have tremendous trust in him.”
