St. John’s Bests New Mexico in Family Coaching Showdown at Madison Square Garden
NEW YORK (AP) — In a spirited family rivalry, Rick Pitino’s No. 22 St. John’s Red Storm triumphed over his son Richard Pitino’s New Mexico Lobos with an 85-71 victory on Sunday at Madison Square Garden, marking a significant test for St. John’s early in the season. Star player RJ Luis Jr. led the charge with an impressive 21 points and 11 rebounds, while five players from St. John’s scored in double figures, contributing to their undefeated record of 4-0.
The game showcased not only the skills of the players but also the dynamic between the coaching Pitinos. Richard, coaching New Mexico, now holds a record of 1-3 in head-to-head matchups against his father, having previously beaten Rick two years ago during his tenure at Iona. As St. John’s maintained control in the latter stages of the game, the excitement of the crowd amplified with chants of “Who’s your daddy?” echoing through the arena.
Deivon Smith provided additional firepower with 15 points, while Kadary Richmond was a force on both ends of the court, adding 14 points, eight rebounds, and four steals. St. John’s showcased solid teamwork, out-rebounding New Mexico 49-32, a key factor in their victory.
New Mexico, now 3-1, had previously defeated then-No. 22 UCLA but struggled against the Red Storm’s size and depth. The Lobos are set to host Grambling State on Thursday.
St. John’s will take this momentum to the Bahamas, facing challenges against No. 12 Baylor and possibly No. 11 Tennessee or Virginia in the Baha Mar Hoops Bahamas Championship later this week.
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