Tyrone Grant stood on the Madison Square Garden court in awe.

After more than two decades of waiting, the proud alum has a team he believes can make the kind of March noise his team did 26 years ago.

He mentioned, “I can almost say they’re better than us at this point.” He then directed a message to Deivon Smith, expressing that to be considered better, winning the championship is crucial.

The 1998-99 St. John’s team was the program’s last one to reach the Sweet 16.

Those Johnnies went all the way to the Elite Eight, before losing to Ohio State.

They were a No. 3 seed. This group is likely going to be a No. 2.

Grant, who served as the starting center in 1998-99 under coach Mike Jarvis, remarked on the challenging nature of playing against the team. He highlighted their effective defensive strategy of switching and maintaining high intensity throughout the game. Grant shared his optimism and commitment to accompanying the team during the tournament.

“What was so emotional is I know how it feels to win in New York,” he added. “It’s a whole different ballgame.”

Grant said he is working on bringing other members of the 1998-99 team with him on the road, including Metta Sandiford-Artest (formerly Ron Artest).

He is excited to see how far this group can go.

“I think they can win it,” Grant said. “I’m saying that honestly. I haven’t said that in 25 years. I think they can win it.”

Deivon Smith took another shot to his ailing right shoulder and missed the final 5:46.

He, however, said he told coach Rick Pitino he could return if needed.

Reflecting on a recent game, the 6-foot point guard revealed, “Everybody was attacking my shoulder. It was getting pulled all game.” Despite the physical strain, he emphasized his determination not to miss any more games and expressed readiness to persevere. Although eager to rejoin the game, he praised his teammates for securing the win and emphasized the importance of rest and preparation for the upcoming challenges.

Smith initially hurt the shoulder on Jan. 11, and has been in and out of the lineup ever since.

He did play in all three Big East Tournament games.

The senior had four points and four assists in 20 productive minutes on Saturday.