St. John’s basketball coach Rick Pitino had a moment to remember on Thursday, March 6, 2025, when he appeared on ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’. This special visit was all about celebrating the incredible season of the St. John’s Red Storm, who recently clinched the Big East regular-season title and are gearing up for the NCAA Tournament.
Rick Pitino Chats with Jimmy Fallon on NBC’s “Tonight Show”
During the show, Pitino brought his signature humor, sharing stories that had the audience laughing out loud. He even joked about how his long coaching career had twists and turns, including the amusing tale of how he left his wedding day to interview for a coaching job with Jim Boeheim. This lighthearted moment highlighted not just Pitino’s experiences but also his genuine excitement for the Red Storm’s achievements this season.
St. John’s Players Steal the Show with Their Performance
In a quirky twist, the St. John’s players joined Pitino on stage to perform a fun sea shanty parody, which captivated everyone watching. Clad in their traditional team colors, the young athletes displayed their team spirit in style, melding laughter and celebration as they embraced the comedic side of college basketball. The performance was a cute way to engage fans and showcase their camaraderie as they prepare for their upcoming challenges.
Big East Glory and March Madness Ahead
As the discussion unfolded, Pitino shared insight into St. John’s remarkable season so far. With a record of 26-4, they are currently ranked No. 6 nationally, leading the Big East conference. This achievement marks their return to the spotlight, returning to the AP Top 10 for the first time since the 1999-2000 season. Pitino and Fallon also touched upon the excitement surrounding the NCAA Tournament, where St. John’s is projected as a strong contender for a 3-seed in the South Regional.
CHECK OUT THE LATEST BIG EAST STANDINGS AND ST. JOHN’S STATS
| Team | Record | Conference |
|---|---|---|
| St. John’s Red Storm | 26-4 | Big East |
| Marquette | 24-6 | Big East |
| Xavier | 23-7 | Big East |
The anticipation is building as St. John’s looks forward to their next game against Marquette this Saturday, a crucial matchup that could further solidify their position heading into the NCAA Tournament. Fans are eagerly awaiting to see how their team will perform in this exciting time.
What’s Next for St. John’s?
Pitino’s entertaining appearance on the show was not only a celebration of their achievements but also a reminder of the journey ahead for the Red Storm. As the team prepares for March Madness, there’s a buzz in the air about what they can achieve. Pitino remains optimistic, stating that with hard work and a bit of luck, they could either face early challenges or advance all the way to the Final Four. The energy surrounding St. John’s is palpable, and fans from Brooklyn to beyond are gearing up for what promises to be an exhilarating postseason.
In a playful exchange, Fallon even promised to invite Pitino back for the show if St. John’s secures a victory in March Madness, further adding to the excitement of this basketball season. As the energy builds and March approaches, one thing is clear: St. John’s is ready to make a statement.
