St. John’s Triumphs Over Xavier as Pitino Celebrates 900th Win vs. Son
In a thrilling matchup at Cintas Center, St. John’s University defeated Xavier University 88-83, marking head coach Rick Pitino’s historic 900th career win. This celebrated victory was particularly significant as it was the first encounter against his son, Richard Pitino, in a Big East showdown.
Game Highlights and Performance
The game was a rollercoaster of emotions. St. John’s, initially facing a 16-point deficit in the second half, rallied to secure the win. Key player Dylan Darling emerged as a hero, scoring five critical points in the last 1:20, including a game-winning three-pointer with just over 50 seconds remaining.
Pivotal Moments
- St. John’s was down by 16 points early in the second half.
- Dylan Darling’s crucial three-pointer propelled the Red Storm to victory.
- Players celebrated with commemorative shirts honoring Pitino’s remarkable achievement.
Filip Borovicanin’s three-point play had already fouled out St. John’s star forward Zuby Ejiofor in a controversial call, allowing Xavier a temporary one-point lead. However, Darling quickly countered with his decisive shot, and Ruben Prey’s follow-up ensured the win for the Johnnies.
Player Contributions
The game showcased impressive individual performances. Bryce Hopkins led St. John’s with 18 points and eight rebounds. Dillon Mitchell contributed significantly with 17 points, seven rebounds, and six assists. Ejiofor added a double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds. For Xavier, Tre Carroll was a standout, scoring 31 points.
Game Summary
- Final Score: St. John’s 88, Xavier 83
- Date: January 24, 2026
- Location: Cintas Center, Cincinnati
The first half saw St. John’s establish an early lead, but complacency allowed Xavier to rally back, ending the half ahead by 12 points. In the second half, despite a shaky start, St. John’s found its footing, ultimately outscoring Xavier and sealing the historic victory.
Coach Pitino’s Reflections
After the game, Rick Pitino expressed immense pride in his team’s resilience. “They just stayed with it,” he remarked, acknowledging the crowd’s energy and the players’ determination. This victory not only marks a career milestone but also showcases the growing strength and cohesion of the St. John’s team.
This win continues to build momentum for St. John’s as they aim for further success in the Big East. The triumph not only commemorates Pitino’s legacy as a coach but also sets the stage for an exciting season ahead.
