SPORTS

St. John's cruises past Northern Iowa into Round of 32

PUBLISHED Mar 20, 2026, 12:39 AM ET

Read, Watch or Listen

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 12

Center 100%

Sources: 12

San Diego — St. John's defeated Northern Iowa 79-53 Friday at Viejas Arena in the East Regional first round of the NCAA Tournament, led by a balanced offensive effort and strong rebounding that produced an early lead the Panthers could not overcome. The victory advanced the fifth-seeded Red Storm to the Round of 32, where they are scheduled to face No. 4 Kansas on Sunday; St. John's reported 29-6 season record, Zuby Ejiofor posted 14 points and 11 rebounds, and the team made 10 three-pointers.

By Lauren Mitchell | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

November — St. John's endured several nonconference losses that reduced early-season expectations.
Early January — Home loss to Providence occurred, then the team began a prolonged winning streak.
Late season — St. John's won Big East regular-season and conference tournament championships.
Friday (East Regional) — St. John's beat Northern Iowa 79-53 at Viejas Arena in NCAA first round.
Sunday (Round of 32) — St. John's scheduled to play No. 4 Kansas in the second round.

News Intelligence

St. John's victory is a testament to resilience. Despite early-season losses, they bounced back to win the Big East championships and now advance in the NCAA Tournament. It's a reminder that setbacks can fuel future success. If you're a fan, it's time to show your support.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 12
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 12

Who Benefited

St. John's University, its players and coaching staff benefited directly from the 79-53 NCAA Tournament win, advancing the program to the Round of 32 and reinforcing its late-season momentum.

Who Impacted

Northern Iowa's program and players suffered an elimination from the NCAA Tournament after the 79-53 loss in the East Regional first round.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 12
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 12
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

St. John's University, its players and coaching staff benefited directly from the 79-53 NCAA Tournament win, advancing the program to the Round of 32 and reinforcing its late-season momentum.

Who Impacted

Northern Iowa's program and players suffered an elimination from the NCAA Tournament after the 79-53 loss in the East Regional first round.