Zuby Ejiofor Achieves Triple-Double in St. John's Victory Over Villanova

On February 28, 2026, Zuby Ejiofor, a senior forward for the St. John's Red Storm, delivered a standout performance in his penultimate regular-season home game, achieving his first career triple-double. The 15th-ranked Red Storm defeated Villanova 89-57 at Madison Square Garden, marking a significant rebound from a previous loss to UConn. Ejiofor recorded 16 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists, becoming only the fifth St. John's player to achieve a triple-double since the 1985-86 season.

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St. John's entered the game against Villanova following a disappointing 72-40 defeat to No. 6 UConn, where they shot only 20% and missed their last 24 field-goal attempts. This loss ended a 13-game winning streak, the longest for the program in 41 years. In contrast, the game against Villanova showcased a revitalized Red Storm, with Ejiofor's performance being a highlight. Coach Rick Pitino praised Ejiofor's contributions, noting his leadership and defensive skills.

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The atmosphere at Madison Square Garden was electric, with a sellout crowd of 19,812 cheering Ejiofor as he approached his triple-double. He secured the milestone by assisting Joson Sanon for a jumper with 3:12 left in the game, after which he was substituted to a standing ovation. Ejiofor reflected on the moment, stating, “It means everything to have this type of performance, especially with my family in the crowd as well.”

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Pitino emphasized the importance of Ejiofor's growth, stating, “I became a man in this program. Coach Pitino, for the last three years now, has been guiding me through this whole process.”

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With this victory, St. John's improved to a record of 23-6, maintaining a half-game behind UConn in the Big East standings. Ian Jackson contributed significantly off the bench with 19 points and a career-high five steals. The Red Storm's win over Villanova marked their largest victory against the Wildcats, who set a season low for points in this game.

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St. John's is set to play its final regular-season home game against Georgetown, where Ejiofor will be honored on Senior Night. The Red Storm aims to build on this momentum as they prepare for the Big East Tournament, where they will seek to capitalize on their strong performance and Ejiofor's leadership.

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• “It means everything to have this type of performance, especially with my family in the crowd as well,” — Zuby Ejiofor, St. John's Forward

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• “I became a man in this program. Coach Pitino, for the last three years now, has been guiding me through this whole process. Not just with the game of basketball, but just life in general. I’m really blessed to be able to put on this jersey each and every night,” — Zuby Ejiofor, St. John's Forward

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• “You knew Zuby wasn’t going to come out and lay an egg,” — Kevin Willard, Villanova Coach

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This game not only highlighted Ejiofor's individual achievements but also underscored St. John's resilience as they look to finish the season strong.

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