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Rick Pitino faced off against his son, Richard, on Sunday in out-of-conference college basketball action. As the closing moments of that contest played out, the St. John’s crowd began chanting disrespect towards the New Mexico head coach. His father was having none of it!
It was the younger Pitino who played in the NCAA Tournament last season after winning 26 games. Rick Pitino, meanwhile, was on the outside looking in on Selection Sunday.
Each has sights set on making an appearance in this year’s Big Dance, with this head-to-head contest representing an opportunity to grab a statement win in mid-November. Both teams entered the game at 3-0. The Lobos already own a victory over a ranked UCLA squad. St. John’s was looking for its first major win.
It was a family affair. The Pitinos were seen embracing in pregame prior to tip-off. When the action started, though, the niceties ended!
Family first 🫶
Rick and Richard Pitino embrace before coaching against each other in MSG 🙌
(via @StJohnsBBall) pic.twitter.com/ntj4pKgxLM
— NCAA March Madness (@MarchMadnessMBB) November 17, 2024
The Red Storm jumped out to a double digit first half lead, taking a 40-29 advantage into the locker room at the break. They’d never trail in the second half while cruising to an 85-71 win.
It was pure dominance on St. John’s part as they led for the final 34 minutes of play. The home crowd let Richard Pitino hear about it as the final few seconds ticked from the clock!
Fans were heard chanting “Who’s Your Daddy?” as the Lobos began to see the writing on the wall. Rick Pitino was visibly upset. He quickly gestured to the crowd in hopes of quieting the disrespectful celebration.
Rick Pitino, the daddy of New Mexico’s Richard Pitino, did not enjoy the St. John’s crowd chanting, “Who’s your Daddy?” pic.twitter.com/uAawHpjHyQ
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) November 17, 2024
Pitino wasn’t happy to hear his fanbase chiding his son from the stands. He did his best to silence them! While the head coach didn’t appreciate the reaction, he was pleased with his team’s performance against a very capable New Mexico squad.
The Red Storm will enjoy this one for a few days longer. The road doesn’t get any easier in the coming week with a matchup vs. No. 12 Baylor looming.