In a thrilling NCAA Tournament matchup on March 22, 2026, Rick Pitino’s St. John’s Red Storm pulled off a stunning upset against the Kansas Jayhawks, winning 67-65 as Dylan Darling hit a layup just as time expired. This victory not only propelled St. John’s into the Sweet 16 for the first time since 1999 but also highlighted Pitino’s enduring impact on college basketball at the age of 73.
The game was tightly contested, with St. John’s entering as a No. 5 seed against No. 4 seed Kansas. Darling’s game-winning shot marked a historic moment, as he became the first player to score a buzzer-beater without having scored any points prior to the shot. This unique feat added to the drama of the game, showcasing the unpredictable nature of March Madness.
St. John’s has been on a remarkable run, winning 21 of their last 22 games, including both the Big East regular-season and tournament titles. This recent success has revitalized the program and brought it back into the national spotlight. Pitino, who has amassed 914 career victories, ranks third in college basketball history, further solidifying his legacy as one of the sport’s greats.
Reflecting on the game, Pitino remarked, “Here’s the amazing thing and it’s the funniest thing I’ve ever been involved with.” His ability to inspire confidence in his players was evident, particularly in Darling’s willingness to take the crucial shot despite struggling throughout the game. Pitino noted, “For a player today, with all the scrutiny, to want the ball when he’s shooting terrible… it just speaks volumes about what he’s about — confidence.”
This victory sets the stage for a potential showdown between St. John’s and the Duke Blue Devils, a matchup that has not occurred in a significant NCAA game for 30 years. The anticipation surrounding this possibility adds another layer of excitement to the tournament.
As the tournament progresses, the basketball community is abuzz with reactions to St. John’s unexpected success and Pitino’s coaching prowess. “You win some, you lose some,” he stated, reflecting on the highs and lows of tournament play. Pitino’s experience and strategic acumen will be crucial as his team looks to continue their remarkable journey.
With this win, St. John’s not only advances in the tournament but also re-establishes itself as a formidable force in college basketball, under the guidance of a legendary coach. The implications of this victory extend beyond just the current season, potentially reshaping the future of the program.
As fans and analysts alike celebrate this momentous occasion, the focus will now shift to how far St. John’s can go in the tournament and what further surprises await in the coming rounds.
