Seton Hall's NCAA Tournament Hopes Dashed by St. John's in Big East Semifinals

Seton Hall entered the Big East Tournament semifinals against St. John's on March 13, 2026, with hopes of solidifying their case for an NCAA Tournament at-large bid. The Pirates, led by head coach Shaheen Holloway, were positioned as a bubble team, needing a victory to enhance their tournament résumé. Despite a strong start to the season, Seton Hall's performance against top teams had been lacking, with a record of 0-6 against St. John's, UConn, and Villanova in league play. The Pirates had a NET ranking of 53 and were 8-9 in Quad 1 and Quad 2 games, which contributed to their precarious standing.

Sports IllustratedSt. John’s Nears Big East Title Repeat After Defeating Seton HallAM New York

In a decisive matchup at Madison Square Garden, St. John's defeated Seton Hall 78-68, advancing to the Big East Tournament finals for the second consecutive year. The Red Storm, under Hall of Fame coach Rick Pitino, showcased their depth and talent, with Zuby Ejiofor leading the charge with 20 points. Joson Sanon and Dillon Mitchell also made significant contributions, scoring 15 and 13 points, respectively. St. John's established an early lead with an 11-0 run to start the second half, which proved pivotal in maintaining their advantage throughout the game.

Associated Press

Seton Hall struggled to contain St. John's offensive momentum, particularly in the paint, where Ejiofor capitalized on defensive lapses. Although the Pirates managed to cut the deficit to one point at one stage, they could not sustain the pressure. The Pirates' physical defense was initially effective, but they faltered as St. John's pushed the pace and executed timely three-pointers. Seton Hall's Budd Clark led his team with 17 points and 11 assists, but their efforts fell short, leaving them likely out of the NCAA Tournament contention.

AM New York

St. John's victory not only secures their place in the finals but also reinforces their status as a dominant force in the Big East, having won six consecutive matchups against Seton Hall. The Red Storm will face either UConn or Georgetown in the championship game, aiming for their second consecutive title. Conversely, Seton Hall's defeat raises questions about their postseason prospects, as they were already on the fringes of NCAA Tournament selection.

St. John’s Nears Big East Title Repeat After Defeating Seton Hall

Shaheen Holloway expressed disappointment over the outcome, emphasizing the need for his team to focus on their performance rather than external projections. “We can't worry about the future right now,” he stated, reflecting the uncertainty surrounding their tournament chances.

Sports Illustrated

• “I don't kind of get into that. Personally, I think we did enough.” — Shaheen Holloway, Head Coach, Seton Hall

Sports Illustrated

• “Key Performers in the Victory Zuby Ejiofor was instrumental in the win.” — AMNY Sports Report

St. John’s Nears Big East Title Repeat After Defeating Seton Hall

• “John’s has displayed remarkable form, winning 18 of their last 19 games.” — AMNY Sports Report

St. John’s Nears Big East Title Repeat After Defeating Seton Hall

St. John's will compete in the Big East Tournament finals on March 14, 2026, against the winner of the UConn vs. Georgetown matchup, while Seton Hall's future in the NCAA Tournament remains uncertain following their semifinal exit.

St. John’s Nears Big East Title Repeat After Defeating Seton Hall