Dylan Darling’s buzzer-beater versus Kansas sends St. John’s men’s basketball to first Sweet Sixteen since 1999
Darling was held scoreless until he cashed in a driving layup to propel the Red Storm into the second weekend in euphoric fashion
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 22: Dylan Darling #0 of the St. John's Red Storm shoots the ball against Elmarko Jackson #13 and Flory Bidunga #40 of the Kansas Jayhawks during the second half in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Viejas Arena at San Diego State University on March 22, 2026 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Sean M.
Haffey/Getty Images) | Getty Images Whistle, whistle, whistle. Kansas was content to burn its remaining fouls to give, denying Dylan Darling from advancing the ball past the timeline over and over again. This final possession re-told Darling’s frustrating night, who was held scoreless and missed all four of his shot attempts to that point.
The Red Storm let momentum slip from their fingertips, suddenly transitioning from controlling play with physicality to leaking second-chance opportunities and points at the rim. The Jayhawks neutralized a 14-point second-half Johnnies lead with a 25-11 run capped off with free throws by super freshman Darryn Peterson, leveling the score at 65. The fourth time down the court was the charm for Darling.
With 3. 9 seconds remaining, Darling received the inbound pass by Bryce Hopkins at half-court, and instead of setting up for a jumper like he’s done all night, he made a beeline to the basket. The southpaw jetted past Elmarko Jackson and lifted a right-handed finger roll off the corner of the backboard and into the basket as the shot clock expired.