Billionaire booster Mike Repole on why Rick Pitino is the perfect St. John's coach

Entrepreneur and St. John's backer explains why the Hall of Fame coach is the ideal fit for the Red Storm

Mar. 27, 2026 at 2:33am

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Entrepreneur and St. John's booster Mike Repole discusses his close relationship with head coach Rick Pitino, why Pitino is the perfect fit for the Red Storm, and his expectations for the team's March Madness run.

Why it matters

Repole's unwavering support and significant financial investment in the St. John's program have been crucial in the team's resurgence under Pitino's leadership. The coach's Hall of Fame credentials and proven track record of success make him an ideal fit to revive the once-storied Red Storm basketball program.

The details

Repole, who has sold multiple companies for billions, is a self-described "win-aholic" who shares Pitino's relentless drive and competitive spirit. The two have formed a close bond, with Repole providing Pitino and the team with the resources and backing to compete at the highest level. Repole has invested heavily in NIL deals and other support to ensure St. John's can attract top talent and compete with the elite programs in college basketball.

  • Repole and Pitino first connected when the coach was at Louisville, with Repole dreaming of Pitino one day leading the Red Storm.
  • Pitino took over as St. John's head coach in 2022, inheriting a program that had struggled for relevance for two decades.
  • In Pitino's first season, St. John's has emerged as a March Madness contender, earning a Sweet 16 berth.

The players

Mike Repole

An entrepreneur and billionaire who has served as a major booster and supporter of the St. John's basketball program since hiring Rick Pitino as head coach.

Rick Pitino

The Hall of Fame college basketball coach who took over as head coach of St. John's in 2022, tasked with reviving the once-proud program.

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What they’re saying

“It's easy. Because we're crazy (laugh). We push ourselves.”

— Mike Repole, St. John's booster

“To me, what's more impressive, somebody like a John Wooden and Coach K [Mike Krzyzewski] that stays at one program for 40 years and wins multiple championships, or somebody that, no matter where he goes, he's the common denominator.”

— Mike Repole, St. John's booster

“He's the biggest motivator out there. I think he challenges and pushes people to limits that they've never thought they had before. He's not out here to make friends. He's out here to make you better.”

— Mike Repole, St. John's booster

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.