Archbishop Hicks Attends St. John’s University Men’s Basketball Game at Madison Square Garden

St. John’s University proudly welcomed the Most Reverend Archbishop Ronald A. Hicks to Madison Square Garden on Monday, February 9, 2026, as he attended the Red Storm Men’s Basketball game in a show of support for the University community, its student-athletes, and its Catholic and Vincentian mission.

Archbishop Hicks, recently installed as the 11th Archbishop of the Archdiocese of New York, joined University leaders, alumni, students, and fans at “The World’s Most Famous Arena” as St. John’s took the court against Xavier University for one of its marquee BIG EAST Conference matchups of the season. His presence marked a meaningful moment for the University, reflecting the deep and historic ties between St. John’s and the Catholic Church.

“We were honored to welcome Archbishop Hicks to Madison Square Garden,” said Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P., President. “His attendance at our game symbolizes his dedication to engaging with the people and institutions that make New York’s faith and educational landscape so vibrant.”

During the game, Archbishop Hicks, making his first-ever visit to Madison Square Garden (MSG), was introduced to the crowd of 14,512 and presented with a customized Red Storm jersey emblazoned with his name and the number 11. To the delight of the Red Storm faithful, he immediately donned the jersey of “New York’s Team.”

The historic occasion saw No. 17/17 St. John’s (19–5, 12–1 BIG EAST) outlast Xavier in overtime, 87–82, for its 10th straight victory. With the win, Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Men’s Basketball Head Coach Rick Pitino moved into sole possession of third all-time on the National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Men’s Basketball wins list with victory number 904, surpassing Roy Williams. Coach Pitino now only trails Jim Boeheim (1,112) and Mike Krzyzewski (1,202) on the career wins chart.

Throughout the game, Archbishop Hicks greeted members of the St. John’s community and expressed his enthusiasm for the University’s commitment to academic excellence, service, and athletic achievement. He paused for selfies with fans and MSG personnel all evening.

Ed Kull ’05M.B.A., Vice President and Director of Athletics, added: “The Archbishop’s support means a great deal to our students and to the entire Red Storm community. His presence continues a longstanding tradition of St. John’s basketball serving as a unifying force for alumni, students, supporters, and partners across New York City, particularly during games played at Madison Square Garden—a signature stage for the Red Storm.”