Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P. President | St. John's University website
Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P. President | St. John's University website
St. John’s University celebrated the Red Storm Men's Basketball team as they departed for Providence, Rhode Island, to compete in the NCAA Tournament. The team recently won the BIG EAST Conference and will face Omaha in their first-round game.
On March 18, fans gathered at Carnesecca Arena to cheer on Head Coach Rick Pitino's team. The send-off included spirit squads, the Pep Band, and mascot Johnny Thunderbird. This event followed St. John's first BIG EAST Tournament championship win since 2000 against Creighton at Madison Square Garden.
The players showcased their BIG EAST trophy at an NCAA Selection Sunday watch party held at The Peter J. Tobin College of Business, where they learned about their matchup with Omaha. Students also gathered at Sodano Coffee House for a Selection Sunday event.
Kal Ginnis, a first-year student, remarked on the campus energy: “We all meet to watch the games. There is so much support for the team.” St. John’s holds a record of 30–4 and is seeded second in the NCAA West Region.
As fans lined up to bid farewell to the team heading onto buses, many took pictures and sought autographs from players like Zuby Ejiofor and RJ Luis Jr., while enjoying performances by the Pep Band and activities with Johnny Thunderbird.
Dance Team member Brielle Termini expressed excitement about campus enthusiasm: “It has been wonderful to see.” Sophomore Thomas Murphy shared his hopes for a national championship: “An event like this inspires you 100 percent.”
Sophomore Lauren Kolovich praised the team's perseverance: “Their style of play is so inspiring.” Fans are optimistic about St. John’s potential success in the tournament despite any challenges ahead.
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