It’s March, and everyone is talking about the NCAA Tournament. Currently, few coaches are receiving more love and admiration than Rick Pitino. Despite the pressure of leading St. John’s, Pitino took time to praise one of his NBA players.
On Monday night, the Detroit Pistons edged the Los Angeles Lakers 113–110. The night belonged to Pistons point guard Daniss Jenkins, who delivered one of the most impressive performances of his young NBA career. Jenkins, on a two-way contract with Detroit, recorded a career high with 30 points, eight assists, and four rebounds, leading the team in both scoring and playmaking during the thrilling victory.
Following Jenkins’ memorable night, his former coach expressed his pride on social media. “Another awesome night for @Djenkinss5 — 30 points, 8 assists, and 4 rebounds,” Pitino wrote on X. The Hall of Fame coach added that the “Johnnie Nation is proud” of the 24-year-old, highlighting the lasting bond between Pitino and his former player.
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Jenkins transferred to St. John’s from Iona before 2023-24 campaign, following Pitino to New York. He quickly established himself as one of Pitino’s most reliable floor generals. Renowned for his quickness, shooting ability, and poise in crucial late-game situations, Jenkins played a key role in guiding the Red Storm during Pitino’s first season rebuilding the program.
Despite his success in college, Jenkins went undrafted in the 2024 NBA Draft. He then signed a two-way contract with the Pistons, appearing in seven games during his rookie season. Jenkins re-signed a two-way contract on August 3, 2025, and scored a career-high 24 points in November against the Wizards.
Now, just months later, Jenkins has surpassed that mark, setting a new career high and continuing to grow in the league. He continues to give his former coach even more reasons to be proud of him.
