Saint Peter’s Headed To Sweet Sixteen As March Madness Cinderella Story Continues

The clock hasn’t struck midnight just yet for the Saint Peter’s Peacocks. Before the start of this year’s NCAA Tournament, most people had never heard of the tiny religious school in New Jersey. Now, everybody knows their names.

The Peacocks shocked #2 seed Kentucky in the first round. The Wildcats are loaded with NBA talent. The game shouldn’t have even been close.

Fans following March Madness assumed Saint Peters’ fairy tale run would end there. Instead, Saint Peter’s reached the Sweet 16 for the first time in school history by beating Murray State 70-60. They’ll face the winner of Sunday’s game between Texas and Purdue. Peacocks coach Shaheen Holloway said his players are living every kid’s dream, according to ESPN.

“I’m just proud that these guys get to play on a different type of stage. NCAA tournament is every kid’s dream. Playing in the MAAC is a great tournament — I mean a great league. We play on ESPN+.

Advertising

Advertising

We don’t get a lot of big TV games. So these guys get a chance to show their talent on the big stage. That’s what I’m proud of. These guys worked so hard for this moment. I’m just proud of them.”

Saint Peter’s has an enrollment of roughly 2,300 students. They have been the feel-good story of the tournament so far this year. Their nine-game winning streak is the longest active streak in Division 1 basketball. The Peacocks are just two wins away from the Final Four, but even if the journey ends here, this run will be legendary on the tiny New Jersey campus.

What do you think of this story? Let us know in the comments!