St. John's parts ways with AD Mike Cragg despite two years remaining on contract

St. John's is in the market for a new Director of Athletics after the school announced on Monday afternoon that Mike Cragg and the university "mutually agree" to part ways.

Cragg joined the Red Storm in 2018 after spending three decades at Duke University.

"It has been an honor to lead the athletic department at St. John's University,” Cragg said in a statement.

“I am proud of what we have accomplished together and am confident that the department is in a strong position for continued success."

His final day in Queens will be June 30. He had two more years left on his contract, which was extended through the 2025-26 school year in April 2021.

"As I bid farewell to St. John's, I extend my gratitude to our passionate fans and loyal alumni whose support has been the bedrock of our community. I am profoundly thankful for the dedicated and incredible staff of administrators and coaches whose commitment has propelled us forward, Cragg continued.

"Most importantly, I celebrate our remarkable student-athletes, whose hard work and spirit have been a constant source of inspiration. Together, we have achieved great things, and I will forever cherish our shared journey."

St. John's won six Big East Championships throughout its athletic department under Cragg and had 15 teams participate in national postseason tournaments.

The Red Storm hired two men's basketball coaches under Cragg's watch, Mike Anderson and Rick Pitino. Mike Cragg led the very public and tumultuous search that landed Anderson in Queens while President Rev. Brian Shanley took charge on the deal that landed Pitino with the Red Storm.

“We thank Mike for his leadership and all of his contributions to the University community,” said Rev. Shanley said.

“He strengthened the foundation for the continued success of St. John’s Athletics and its student-athletes while always representing the University in a first-class manner. We wish Mike all the best in his future endeavors.”

Fordham's Director of Athletics Ed Kull is expected to be a major candidate for St. John's.

Kull earned his M.B.A at St. John's in 2005 and returned to the school to graduate with his doctorate in 2023. He worked as the Vice President of Athletics and Chief of Staff to President Athletics and Development from 2011-2016.

The school says it will begin a national search for a new athletic director.