It was an unforgettable evening on March 6, 2025, when Rick Pitino, the head coach of the St. John’s Red Storm basketball team, took his talents to ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.’ Known for his jokes and charismatic personality, Pitino shared a few laughs with Jimmy while celebrating his team’s recent achievements, including their coveted Big East regular-season title.
Rick Pitino’s Journey and Humor
Rick Pitino, who has been coaching basketball for an impressive 50 years, was on hand to talk about his successful season with St. John’s. He humorously recounted leaving his own wedding to interview for a coaching position, showcasing the lengths he would go to pursue his passion for basketball. “I just couldn’t pass up on the chance to meet Jim Boeheim!” he told the audience, drawing chuckles from everyone.
St. John’s Red Storm Steals the Show
The St. John’s players weren’t just sitting on the sidelines; they got in on the fun too! The team appeared in a pre-recorded sketch where they joined Pitino in singing a sea shanty parody. The sight of the players, led by their coach in matching white suits, had everyone smiling and clapping along to their quirky performance, which made it clear that this team knows how to have a good time.
Big Achievements This Season
This season has been monumental for the St. John’s Red Storm. They clinched the Big East regular-season title, a feat not achieved since 1984-85, creating a buzz not just among fans but across the nation. With a remarkable record of 17 wins in the Big East, the team is riding high, and basketball enthusiasts are eager to see how far they can go in the upcoming NCAA tournament.
Looking Ahead: March Madness
During his appearance, Pitino also shared his thoughts about what lies ahead for St. John’s as they prepare for the NCAA tournament. He was realistic about the challenges, acknowledging that they could have early exits or even make a run for the Final Four. “You can never predict March Madness; it can go either way!” he remarked, making the audience relate to the excitement and unpredictability of college basketball.
St. John’s Tournament Prospects
The buzz around St. John’s is growing ever stronger, with many sports analysts predicting that they will be a formidable force in the NCAA tournament. Currently, they are expected to enter the tournament as a high seed, marking their return for the first time since the 2018-19 season. Their next game against Marquette on Saturday is anticipated to be a nail-biter, and fans everywhere are keeping their fingers crossed for a win!
Catch the Highlights!
If you missed Pitino’s hilarious appearance on ‘The Tonight Show,’ you’re in luck! Clips of the show will surely be making the rounds on social media, capturing the joy and laughter shared that night. It’s not just about basketball; it’s about the community and spirit of the sport. As St. John’s prepares for the challenges ahead, their fun and engaging personality make them one of the teams to watch this March!
