In Providence, R.I., the conclusion of a game can sometimes have a powerful impact, not unlike a sudden, crushing blow. St. John’s found itself facing the end of their dream season on a Saturday afternoon at Amica Mutual Pavilion. The final moments stretched out endlessly, each passing second weighing heavily.

However, no matter how prepared one may be, the end can arrive abruptly, leaving everyone feeling the weight of defeat. As St. John’s players in mismatched red jerseys pulled on their tops and acknowledged their supporters, the feeling of finality set in. With a permanent score of Arkansas 75, St. John’s 66 displayed, the reality of a challenging journey back home and a seemingly endless offseason loomed ahead.

The heartbreaking scene on the home bench with tears flowing, and around 7,000 St. John’s fans unwilling to accept the scoreboard’s truth, hoping to magically change the outcome. Alas, reality set in as they reluctantly exited the arena under the bright Saturday sun, a stark contrast to the Arkansas Razorbacks who savored their victory on that beautiful day.

Rick Pitino didn’t wait for the buzzer. A few second prior, he walked slowly to the Arkansas bench, shook John Calipari’s hand, offered congratulations. A basketball Appomattox, laying down his sword and his sidearm.