St. John’s vs. Arizona to Clash at Madison Square Garden in Hall of Fame Series
St. John’s men’s basketball will face Arizona at Madison Square Garden on Saturday, Dec. 5, as part of the Hall of Fame Series New York. The matchup features programs led by the last two Naismith National Coaches of the Year, according to event organizers.
The contest is a non-conference game organized by Position Sports in partnership with the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. This meeting marks the second time the two programs have played at “The World’s Most Famous Arena.”
Why is the St. John’s and Arizona matchup significant?
The game pits two of the nation’s top-performing programs against each other following historic 2025-26 campaigns. Arizona recorded a 36-3 overall record, the winningest season in its program’s history, and earned a Final Four appearance.
St. John’s finished the 2025-26 season ranked no. 10 in the Associated Press and USA TODAY Coaches polls. The team went 30-7 overall and tied the BIG EAST record for most single-season conference wins with an 18-2 mark.
What is the history between Rick Pitino and the Arizona Wildcats?
St. John’s Head Coach Rick Pitino holds a 2-2 career record against Arizona, with all meetings occurring on neutral floors. While coaching at Louisville, Pitino led a 103-64 victory over the Wildcats in the 2009 Sweet 16.
However, Pitino’s Kentucky squad lost to Arizona 84-79 in overtime during the 1997 national title game. The two programs are currently tied 1-1 in their overall series, with St. John’s winning the most recent meeting 70-67 in 2019.
How do the programs compare heading into the game?
Arizona enters the matchup coming off a West Region title and its first Final Four appearance in 25 years. The Wildcats return All-Big 12 First Team selection Motiejus Krivas and sophomore Ivan Kharchenkov as regular starters.
St. John’s enters the game following its 10th Sweet 16 appearance. Head Coach Rick Pitino stated that great early competition is “great for all our St. John’s fans” and helps the team prepare for conference and tournament play.
What happens next for the Hall of Fame Series?
Event organizers have slated a return game between St. John’s and Arizona to be played in Phoenix in 2027. Details regarding game time, broadcast destinations, and ticket information for the Dec. 5 game will be announced at a later date.
Fans may find pre-sale details and updates at HOFSeries.com or via @HOFSeries. The contest is already included in all St. John’s season ticket packages.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where will St. John’s play Arizona?
The game is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 5, at Madison Square Garden in New York.
What is the current series record between the two teams?
The series is split, with both St. John’s and Arizona having won one game apiece.
Who is the current coach for Arizona?
Arizona is led by Tommy Lloyd, who was named the 2026 Naismith National Coach of the Year.
Which program’s recent historical run makes them the favorite for this matchup?