Rick Pitino Named St. John's Basketball Coach

Rick Pitino

Rick Pitino Named Head Coach of St. John's University, Aiming to Revive Red Storm Basketball

New York, NY – March 21, 2023 – In a move that has sent shockwaves through the college basketball world, St. John’s University has announced the hiring of Hall of Fame coach Rick Pitino as its new head men’s basketball coach. The 70-year-old coaching legend, known for his storied career and championship pedigree, has signed a multi-year deal to lead the Red Storm, signaling a bold new era for the program.

Pitino, who most recently coached Iona University to back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success. With two NCAA championships (1996 with Kentucky and 2013 with Louisville) and seven Final Four appearances to his name, Pitino is widely regarded as one of the greatest coaches in college basketball history.

'This is a monumental day for St. John’s University and our basketball program,' said St. John’s Athletic Director Mike Cragg. 'Rick Pitino is a winner, a teacher, and a leader who knows what it takes to compete at the highest level. We believe he is the right person to restore St. John’s basketball to national prominence.'

Pitino’s hiring comes at a critical juncture for St. John’s, which has struggled to regain its status as a powerhouse in the Big East Conference. The Red Storm last made the NCAA Tournament in 2019 and has not advanced past the first round since 2000. Fans and alumni are hopeful that Pitino’s arrival will reignite the program’s winning tradition and bring excitement back to Carnesecca Arena.

'I am thrilled and honored to be the head coach of St. John’s University,' Pitino said at a press conference on Monday. 'This is a program with a rich history and incredible potential. I can’t wait to get to work, build a winning culture, and make the Red Storm family proud.'

Pitino’s coaching journey has been marked by both triumphs and controversies. After leading Louisville to a national title in 2013, the program was later forced to vacate the championship due to NCAA violations. Pitino himself was fired in 2017 amid a federal investigation into corruption in college basketball. However, his successful stint at Iona, where he went 64-22 in three seasons, has helped rehabilitate his reputation and demonstrate his enduring ability to develop talent and win games.

At St. John’s, Pitino will face the challenge of rebuilding a roster and competing in a highly competitive Big East Conference that includes perennial contenders like UConn, Villanova, and Marquette. His hiring has already generated buzz among recruits, with several top prospects expressing interest in joining the Red Storm.

'Coach Pitino is a legend,' said high school standout Jordan Smith, a four-star recruit from New York. 'Playing for him at St. John’s would be a dream come true.'

As Pitino takes the reins, the expectations are sky-high. St. John’s fans are eager to see if the Hall of Famer can work his magic once again and return the Red Storm to the national stage. With his proven ability to win championships and develop NBA-caliber talent, the future of St. John’s basketball looks brighter than it has in decades.

For Rick Pitino, the mission is clear: bring St. John’s back to glory. And if history is any indication, he just might do it.

– Written by [Your Name], Sports Correspondent

Rick Pitino Named St. John's Basketball Coach

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