Sat Mar 22 21:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Pitino and Calipari Set for Epic NCAA Tournament Rematch

**Providence, RI** – Basketball fans are in for a treat. Longtime rivals Rick Pitino and John Calipari will clash once again in the NCAA Tournament, setting up a highly anticipated matchup between St. John’s and Arkansas on Saturday.

St. John’s, led by Pitino, secured their first tournament win since 2000 with an 83-53 victory over Omaha. The Red Storm’s second-half surge ensured a meeting with Calipari’s Arkansas team, who earlier defeated Kansas. The game will be a rematch of a storied rivalry, with Calipari holding a 13-10 edge in their 23 previous encounters as college coaches. Their four previous NCAA Tournament meetings have been split evenly, including two Final Four showdowns.

The game marks a significant milestone for St. John’s, a program revitalized under Pitino after a period of dormancy. Pitino, known for his coaching prowess, is leading his sixth different program to the NCAA tournament, seeking his third national championship. This Saturday’s game represents a critical step towards a Sweet 16 berth and potentially another run at the title. Meanwhile, Calipari looks to continue Arkansas’ surprising tournament run and block Pitino’s path.

The highly anticipated clash between Pitino and Calipari will air on CBS at 2:40 p.m. ET on Saturday.

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