Hall of Fame basketball coach Rick Pitino was the victim of a burglary at his office at St. John's University, with two suspects allegedly stealing memorabilia, including a ceremonial sword and a bullhorn.
Hall of Fame basketball coach Rick Pitino's office at St. John's University was burglarized on Tuesday, resulting in the theft of memorabilia and other items. Police are investigating the incident and have released surveillance footage of two suspects.
According to a spokesperson, the burglary occurred just before 8 p.m. at the Queens school. A ceremonial sword and a bullhorn were among the stolen items, which also included personal belongings of Pitino, who is in his second season as head coach of the St. John's men's basketball program.
Rick Pitino's Office Burglarized, Memorabilia Stolen
St. John's University issued a statement regarding the incident, stating that the University is cooperating with the New York Police Department (NYPD) in its investigation by sharing surveillance footage.
Pitino himself made light of the situation on social media, joking that an expensive bottle of wine was among the items stolen. However, he later clarified that the bottle is being kept safe for when St. John's reaches the Final Four.
Rick Pitino's Office Burglarized, Memorabilia Stolen
The NYPD released surveillance footage of the two suspects accused of burglarizing Pitino's office and requested public assistance in identifying them. The investigation is ongoing.
Rick Pitino is a legendary basketball coach who has won NCAA championships at both Kentucky and Louisville. He has also coached in the NBA, leading the New York Knicks and Boston Celtics at different times.
Rick Pitino's Office Burglarized, Memorabilia Stolen
Pitino was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2013. Despite his success as a coach, he has also faced controversy, including a vacated championship at Louisville for NCAA violations.
The burglary at his office at St. John's University has brought attention to the issue of security for coaches and their belongings. Universities take security seriously, but incidents like this serve as a reminder of the importance of vigilance.
Rick Pitino's Office Burglarized, Memorabilia Stolen
As the investigation continues, the public is encouraged to contact the NYPD with any information that may assist in identifying and apprehending the suspects involved in the burglary of Rick Pitino's office.
The sports community and beyond are closely following the developments in this case, as it highlights the vulnerability of even well-protected individuals and the need for effective security measures to prevent future incidents.
