Rick Pitino has simple explanation for St. John’s continued 3-point struggles
OMAHA, Neb. — In three Big East games, St. John's has lost by 42 points from the 3-point line. It also came in a disappointing 57-56 loss to Creighton on Tuesday. St. John's made just 2-of-9 shots from deep and only two 3-pointers after halftime, while Creighton went 9-of-26. “First of all, they weren't open,” […]
Rick Pitino made sure Lou Carnesecca’s sweater magic worked one final time
This was in the midst of the best winter in St. John's vast basketball history, which meant we were in the midst of the most enjoyable season ever for Lou Carnesecca, and that's something. It tells a story. It was February 17, 1985. The Redmen were scheduled to play DePaul — still an independent and […]
St John’s coach Rick Pitino pays homage to late school legend Lou Carnesecca with vintage look
Lou Carnesecca was last on the St. John's Red Storm sideline more than 30 years ago, but his presence continues to be felt. “Louie” passed away last week at the age of 99, prompting many tributes from across the college basketball world and the tri-state area. But the St. John's legend is still fresh in […]
Rick Pitino dons replica of Lou Carnesecca sweater to honor late St. John’s coach
The “caretaker” of St. John's basketball paid tribute to Lou Carnesecca at the Johnnies' game against Kansas State on Saturday. Rick Pitino wore a replica of the sweater Carnesecca made famous during his days on the St. John's sideline. Mr. Carnesecca passed away last Saturday at the age of 99. This was the Red Storm's […]
Rick Pitino fumes over referees’ decision to ice Zuby Ejiofor late in St. John’s loss
Rick Pitino was fouled by Jayden Nunn in the closing minutes of No. 22 St. John's 99-98 loss in overtime, icing Zubie Ejiofor at the free throw line and calling for a replay. I was furious at the decision. No. 13 Baylor. Baylor coach Scott Drew called for a review, believing Ejiofor may have elbowed […]
St. John’s, Rick Pitino defeat son Richard’s New Mexico at MSG
Rick Pitino didn't know what to expect. If only his team was prepared for this kind of test. If St. John's is ready to play as well, it will need to do so against a top-tier opponent. His players gave him a brilliant answer. A year ago, Johnny didn't appear after the Garden lost the […]
Bragging rights on the line in Pitino showdown for St. John’s-New Mexico clash
Sunday afternoon will probably be spent in the garden with the family. Sitting behind the St. John's bench are Rick Pitino's daughter Jacqueline and son Ryan. On the other side of the floor behind New Mexico's bench will be Pitino's wife, Joanne, her sister and best friend, who will support Rick's son Richard. “[Joanne] “I […]
Richard Pitino isn’t part of dad Rick’s St. John’s succession plan
No, Richard Pitino isn't going to follow in his father's footsteps at St. John's University. Last February, Rick Pitino said he wanted Richard to remain in New Mexico until his time in St. John's was over and then take his place. Asked about it on a conference call, Richard downplayed the suggestion. St. John's Red […]
Rick Pitino may send Zuby Ejiofor to bench due to rebounding woes
Rick Pitino is considering a change at center. After Zuby Ejiofor's second straight dominant performance, Pitino could start in his place with Vince Iwchukw. “Zubby didn't have any offensive rebounds, and that's what worries me,” Pitino said after St. John's 96-73 win over Quinnipiac at Carnesecca Arena. “We might have to start Vince because he […]
St. John’s Rick Pitino unfazed by NIL challenges that have driven coaches to retirement
The changing landscape of college basketball has, at least in part, contributed to the exodus of several Hall of Fame coaches. Jay Wright, Mike Krzyzewski, Roy Williams and Tony Bennett all parted ways last week. The advent of Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) and the transfer portal is thought to have led to them ceasing […]