Nov 8, 2026; New York, New York, USA; Iona Gaels forward Sadiku Ibine Ayo

Sadiku Ibine Ayo Gets St. John’s Basketball Tribute at MSG

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Sadiku Ibine Ayo scored the first seven points for Iona on Sunday afternoon at Madison Square Garden, but the homecoming belonged entirely to the St. John’s crowd.

The St. John’s basketball team hosted Iona in a matchup that brought the former guard back to the venue, where stormthepaint.com reported on the event.

Before tip-off, the arena played a video tribute encompassing his accomplishments in Queens. When the public address announcer called his name in the starting lineup for the Gaels, the crowd delivered a standing ovation.

“It was nice seeing what I did here was being appreciated,” Ibine Ayo said after the game regarding the fans’ reaction.

Iona Men's Basketball Takes on No.13 Saint John's at MSG

Ibine Ayo finished the afternoon with 11 points, two rebounds, and two assists. St. John’s ultimately pulled away behind a 104-65 victory, showcasing its depth and potential on the floor.

Yet the final score took a backseat to the personal reception for the veteran guard, who is currently averaging 7.0 points per game in his second stint with Iona.

“I’m always the one telling my teammates to clap to the fans,” Ibine Ayo said, describing his interactions with supporters during his time with the Red Storm.

“Wherever I saw a St. John’s fan, I tried to interact with them try to tell them I appreciated what they were doing, so it’s basically what I think is that they’re trying to show me that they appreciated what [I] did over here at St. John’s.”

The afternoon carried extra significance as Ibine Ayo’s father attended the game at Madison Square Garden.

Sadiku Ibine Ayo Gets St. John's Basketball Tribute at MSG

Prior to tip-off, Iona head coach Rick Pitino noted that he planned to attend some of his player’s games after the two programs faced each other.

While Iona dropped the contest to St. John’s, the team shifts focus back to its schedule. The Gaels intend to pursue the Metro Conference title and secure a return trip to the NCAA Tournament.

St. John's Men's Basketball vs Iona Highlights 11.8.26
Iona vs. No. 13 St. John's | COLLEGE BASKETBALL HIGHLIGHTS | 11/8/26

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