St. John’s Shocks Marquette with Last-Second Buzzer-Beater!

In a thrilling encounter that will be remembered for years to come, St. John’s University, ranked No. 6, stunned No. 20 Marquette with an 86-84 overtime victory on March 8, 2025. The game unfolded at Marquette’s home court, Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, and was marked by dramatic moments and high stakes, especially as it coincided with Marquette’s Senior Day.

The match began with both teams showcasing their strengths, but it was St. John’s who took the early lead. As the game progressed, Marquette fought back fiercely, with standout performances from their players. Kam Jones, in particular, was a force to be reckoned with, scoring an impressive 32 points, including critical baskets in the closing moments of regulation. His efforts, however, were not enough to secure a win for the home team.

As the clock wound down, the tension in the arena was palpable. With just 10 seconds left in regulation, St. John’s RJ Luis Jr. executed a perfect layup, tying the game at 84-84. This clutch play forced the match into overtime, much to the delight of the 17,983 fans in attendance, who created an electric atmosphere throughout the game.

The overtime period was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams exchanging baskets. However, it was Zuby Ejiofor who would steal the show. With time running out, he launched a stunning floater that found the bottom of the net as the buzzer sounded, securing the victory for St. John’s. This marked the second time this season that Ejiofor had hit a buzzer-beater against Marquette, solidifying his reputation as a clutch performer.

St. John’s strong performance throughout the game was highlighted by their dominance on the boards. The team secured a remarkable 19 offensive rebounds, allowing them to score 27 second-chance points. This rebounding prowess proved crucial in a tightly contested game where every possession mattered. Kadary Richmond also made headlines by recording a triple-double, contributing 10 points, 12 rebounds, and 11 assists, showcasing his all-around game.

Despite their efforts, Marquette struggled with free throws, shooting only 12 for 22. This inefficiency at the charity stripe ultimately proved costly in a game decided by mere points. Coach Rick Pitino of St. John’s emphasized the importance of playing with urgency, likening the game to a “one-and-done” scenario. His team’s resolve and determination were evident as they fought to secure this vital win.

The loss hit Marquette hard, especially on a day dedicated to honoring their senior players and their contributions to the program. The emotional weight of the occasion was palpable, and the defeat served as a stark reminder of the high stakes involved in college basketball.

As the dust settles on this thrilling encounter, St. John’s victory enhances their position as a serious contender for the Final Four in the upcoming NCAA tournament. With a regular-season record of 27-4, the team is riding a wave of momentum heading into the postseason. Coach Pitino and his players will undoubtedly look to build on this success as they aim for a deep run in the tournament.

In conclusion, the dramatic buzzer-beater by Zuby Ejiofor not only secured a vital victory for St. John’s but also added another chapter to the storied rivalry between these two programs. The game was a testament to the unpredictable nature of college basketball, where every moment counts and heroes can emerge when least expected. As fans reflect on this unforgettable matchup, one thing is clear: St. John’s is a team to watch as they prepare for their postseason journey.