NYC Gazette

Red Storm fans gathered at the Sodano Coffee House in the D’Angelo Center on March 20 to witness St. John’s University defeat Omaha, 83–53, in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament. Over 150 students came together to enjoy pizza and support their team, which is seeded second in the West Region with a record of 31–4.

Rebecca Rogers, a sophomore Accounting student residing on the Queens campus, expressed her excitement: “We are one community, and it is great that we all come together and support this team.” Adil Islam, another sophomore Accounting major, added his pride: “To have this team enjoy so much success is really incredible, and it is great to enjoy it together.”

This watch party followed an earlier gathering on March 16 for the NCAA Tournament Selection Show. Students discovered then that St. John’s would face Omaha in Providence, RI. A similar event is planned for their upcoming game against Arkansas on March 22.

Local news stations were present during the event to capture student enthusiasm. CBS2 NY broadcast live from the D’Angelo Center postgame with St. John’s victory as a highlight.

Student gatherings are expected to continue at the D’Angelo Center as long as Red Storm progresses in the tournament. Senior Criminal Justice student Rian Finney commented on experiencing this success while still a student: “The way they defend and hustle after every loose ball—and we get the highlight-film plays every once in a while.”

RJ Luis Jr.'s dunk brought cheers both at Providence and within D’Angelo Center. Johnny Thunderbird energized attendees with high-fives while Brandon Cosby led chants of “Let’s Go, Johnnies.” Usually leading cheers at MSG or Carnesecca Arena, Brandon noted no difference in stirring up energy at Sodano Coffee House.

Initially trailing Omaha 7–0 early in the game didn’t deter fans; St. John’s soon took control by halftime before securing victory with a strong second half performance.

Students left carrying their enthusiasm back home to Residence Village where first-year Psychology student Erin Daur observed community spirit building around games: “Walking into and out of Donovan Hall you could see everyone was getting ready.” First-year Finance student Karolina Karwaa agreed saying it became "a New York experience."

Sophomore Marketing student Amanda Calamin remained optimistic even when trailing behind—she highlighted how Jimmy Fallon picked them favorably: “The turnaround has been so exciting I think they will go far... They have Jimmy Fallon blessing.”