Overview

• Rick Pitino made history as the first coach to lead six different schools to the NCAA Tournament, including St. John’s this season.
• St. John’s defeated Omaha 83-53 in the first round, marking their first NCAA Tournament victory in 25 years.
• The second-round matchup pits Pitino against longtime rival John Calipari, whose Arkansas team upset Kansas in the first round.
• Pitino has reflected on his storied career, acknowledging its nearing conclusion while continuing to find joy in coaching.
• The rivalry between Pitino and Calipari dates back decades, with Calipari holding a 13-10 edge in their head-to-head record.