Renowned basketball coach Rick Pitino fell victim to a burglary this week at St. John's University, where he currently serves as the head coach of the men's basketball program. The incident took place on Tuesday evening, just before 8 p.m., when Pitino's office at the Queens school was broken into by two suspects.
The theft, which occurred at St. John's University's Queens Campus, involved the stolen property from an office within the Athletics Department. The university promptly shared surveillance footage with the NYPD to aid in the ongoing investigation.
Among the items taken from Pitino's office were a ceremonial sword and a bullhorn, with an estimated total value of around $375. Pitino, known for his sense of humor, joked on social media about an expensive bottle of wine being stolen, later clarifying that it was safely stored for a celebratory occasion when St. John's reaches the Final Four.
The NYPD has released video surveillance footage of the alleged suspects and is seeking assistance from the public in identifying them. Pitino, a highly accomplished coach, secured NCAA championships at Kentucky in 1996 and Louisville in 2013, although the latter title was later vacated due to NCAA violations. He also had coaching stints in the NBA with the New York Knicks and the Boston Celtics.
Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2013, Pitino's career has been marked by significant achievements and contributions to the world of basketball. The burglary at St. John's University serves as a reminder of the vulnerability of high-profile figures, even within educational institutions.
