St. John's Seeks First Sweet 16 Since 1999, But Kansas Star Stands in Way

The Red Storm look to advance past the second round for the first time in over two decades, but Jayhawks' Darryn Peterson poses a formidable challenge.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 3:34am

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One year after falling short in the second round of the NCAA Tournament, St. John's is back with another chance to reach the Sweet 16 for the first time since 1999. Standing in their way is a talented Kansas team led by potential No. 1 NBA draft pick Darryn Peterson. The Red Storm are coming off Big East regular-season and tournament titles, and are looking to build on their impressive 29-6 record this season.

Why it matters

St. John's has not reached the Sweet 16 since 1999, and this year's team is determined to end that drought. A win over Kansas would be a significant milestone for the program and validate their strong season. The matchup also features a potential future NBA star in Peterson, adding to the intrigue of the game.

The details

St. John's is led by Big East Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year Zuby Ejiofor, a 6-foot-9 forward who transferred from Kansas. The Red Storm have a more balanced and capable roster compared to last year, with improved size and 3-point shooting. Kansas, however, boasts impressive size and athleticism, led by 6-foot-6 Peterson and shot-blocking specialist Flory Bidunga. The Jayhawks have wins over several tournament contenders this season, but have struggled down the stretch.

  • St. John's and Kansas will face off in an East Region second-round game on Sunday, March 23, 2026.
  • Last year, St. John's was the only top-8 seed to fail to reach the Sweet 16, losing in the second round.

The players

Zuby Ejiofor

A 6-foot-9 forward and the Big East Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year, who transferred to St. John's after playing sparingly as a freshman at Kansas.

Darryn Peterson

A 6-foot-6 standout for Kansas and a potential No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.

Flory Bidunga

A sophomore big man for Kansas who is one of the top shot-blockers in the country.

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What they’re saying

“We're going to come with a lot of fire and passion.”

— Bryce Hopkins

“We don't fear anybody.”

— Oziyah Sellers

“We probably haven't faced anything like them since Kentucky as far as the length, size and size of the backcourt.”

— Rick Pitino, Head Coach, St. John's

What’s next

The winner of the St. John's-Kansas matchup will advance to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament.

The takeaway

St. John's has a chance to end its 23-year drought without a Sweet 16 appearance, but will need to overcome the size, length and talent of a formidable Kansas team led by potential No. 1 draft pick Darryn Peterson. The Red Storm's confidence and balanced roster make them a tough out, but the Jayhawks' impressive resume suggests this will be a tough challenge.