Rick Pitino Addresses Future as St. John's Coach

Veteran coach responds to booster's call for new contract extension

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Rick Pitino, the 73-year-old head coach of the St. John's men's basketball team, addressed his future with the program after a top booster called for the school to do whatever it takes to ensure Pitino retires in Queens. Pitino said he is not making any plans to leave St. John's, and that the school spoke to his agent about a potential new contract on Wednesday.

Why it matters

Pitino's future with St. John's has been a topic of discussion, as the team has seen a resurgence under his leadership. The booster's comments suggest a desire to keep the Hall of Fame coach in Queens long-term, which could have significant implications for the program's stability and recruiting efforts.

The details

In his comments, Pitino said he is not actively planning to 'move anywhere or do anything' and that if a new contract happens, 'it happens.' He also confirmed that St. John's spoke to his agent, Evan Daniels, about a potential new deal on Wednesday. According to sources, there is confidence a new contract will ultimately be reached.

  • On February 11, 2026, a top St. John's booster called for the school to do whatever it takes to ensure Pitino retires in Queens.
  • On February 12, 2026, Pitino addressed his future as St. John's head coach.

The players

Rick Pitino

The 73-year-old Hall of Fame head coach of the St. John's men's basketball team.

Evan Daniels

Pitino's agent who spoke with St. John's about a potential new contract for the coach.

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What they’re saying

“I'm not making any plans to move anywhere or do anything. So if it happens, it happens. If it doesn't happen, it's not a big deal.”

— Rick Pitino, Head Coach, St. John's Men's Basketball (nypost.com)

What’s next

According to sources, there is confidence a new contract deal between St. John's and Rick Pitino will ultimately get done.

The takeaway

Pitino's comments suggest he is open to staying at St. John's long-term, but is not actively seeking a new contract. The school's discussions with his agent indicate a mutual interest in extending their partnership, which could provide stability for the program as it looks to build on its recent resurgence under Pitino's leadership.