St John's names Rick Pitino as head coach days after losing with Iona in March Madness

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Just days after losing in the First Round of March Madness, Rick Pitino is heading to St. John’s University to become its next head basketball coach. 

Pitino, a Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer, reportedly had discussions with the university after his Iona Gaels squad fell to the UConn Huskies in the NCAA Tournament. It was made official on Monday.

"One of my great coaching memories was having the distinct privilege of coaching against Lou Carnesecca and St. John's, a Hall of Fame coach and historic program that I have always respected," said Pitino in an official statement by St. John’s on the hire. "It is surreal to now have this opportunity to bring St. John's back to prominence. I'm honored, humbled and grateful to Fr. Shanley, Bill Janetschek and Mike Cragg for making me feel so special."

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Head coach Rick Pitino of the Iona Gaels looks on during the first half against the Connecticut Huskies during the first round of the 2022 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament held at MVP Arena on March 17, 2023 in Albany, New York. (C. Morgan Engel/NCAA Photos via Getty Images)

Pitino, 70, replaces Mike Anderson as head coach, who was fired following four seasons with a mediocre record 68-56 in 124 games. The New York Post reported that Pitino broke the news to his Iona players on Sunday after St. John’s offered him the role.

The Post adds that St. John’s location close to his Mamaroneck, New York, home was a key factor as well as playing in Madison Square Garden. Pitino was the New York Knicks’ head coach from 1987 to 1989 before heading back to college with the Kentucky Wildcats.