A College Basketball Revival in New York City: The Pitino Effect at St. John’s
In Midtown Manhattan, on a cold winter Saturday, the crowd at Madison Square Garden eagerly awaited the entrance of St. John’s coach Rick Pitino. With Alicia Keys’ “Empire State of Mind” setting the mood, the stage was set for a college basketball matinee like no other.
Under Pitino’s guidance, St. John’s basketball has been revitalized. The team’s unbeaten streak in 2025, coupled with back-page headlines in New York tabloids, has reignited the passion for the game in the city. The recent victory over Providence drew a crowd of 19,196 fans, signaling a resurgence of interest in the Red Storm.
Currently ranked No. 12, St. John’s sits atop the Big East, facing key matchups against Marquette and UConn. Pitino’s leadership has been instrumental in the team’s success, with the program on track to end a five-year NCAA Tournament drought.
Pitino’s coaching style has garnered praise from basketball legends, with his ability to elevate his players’ performance being a key factor in St. John’s recent success. Despite his storied career and past controversies, Pitino’s impact on the program is undeniable.
As St. John’s continues its rise under Pitino’s guidance, the future looks bright for the Red Storm. With a focus on academic excellence and community engagement, the school is poised to become a top university in addition to a basketball powerhouse.
In a city known for its passion for sports, St. John’s basketball is once again at the forefront, thanks to the Pitino Effect. With a renewed sense of purpose and determination, the Red Storm is set to leave a lasting impact on the college basketball landscape.
(Photo: Wendell Cruz / Imagn Images)