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St. John's coach Pitino criticized for late-game substitution
Fans question decision to bench star player Ruben Prey in close loss to Duke
Mar. 28, 2026 at 2:25pm
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St. John's basketball coach Rick Pitino is facing criticism from fans and media for his decision to bench star player Ruben Prey late in the second half of a close loss to Duke. Prey had been having a standout game, but Pitino opted to keep him on the bench down the stretch, a move that has drawn widespread backlash from the New York sports community.
Why it matters
Pitino is a legendary college basketball coach, but his in-game management decisions are being heavily scrutinized after this tough loss. St. John's had been having a strong season and this defeat could hurt their chances of making the NCAA tournament, making Pitino's questionable substitution pattern all the more impactful.
The details
In the closing minutes of the game against Duke, Ruben Prey had been on fire, hitting 4 three-pointers and keeping St. John's in the game. However, Pitino decided to keep Prey on the bench for most of the final stretch, a decision that has been widely criticized by fans and media members on social media and in articles. Many are questioning Pitino's reasoning for not playing his best player when the game was still within reach.
- The game between St. John's and Duke took place on March 27, 2026.
The players
Rick Pitino
The head coach of the St. John's basketball team, known as one of the most successful and experienced coaches in college basketball history.
Ruben Prey
A star player for the St. John's basketball team who was having an excellent game against Duke before being benched late in the second half.
What they’re saying
“Ruben Prey when someone asks him after the game why Rick Pitino didn't play him late in the second half while having the best game of his life.”
— John Lund
“Rick Pitino worst move tonight was not playing Ruben Prey extended minutes.”
— New York sports fan
“It's hard to question Rick Pitino. I know he is one of the best to ever do it, but I just can't comprehend Ruben Prey basically sitting the rest of the game after hitting his 4th three. Great run Johnnies!”
— St. John's fan
What’s next
The St. John's team and coaching staff will need to regroup and analyze Pitino's late-game substitution patterns ahead of their next game.
The takeaway
This loss highlights the intense scrutiny and pressure that high-profile college basketball coaches face, even ones with Pitino's pedigree. His decision-making will be closely watched as St. John's looks to bounce back and secure a spot in the NCAA tournament.
