St. John’s announced Monday that athletic director Mike Cragg will end his tenure on June 30.
The school said they and Cragg “mutually agreed to part ways.” Cragg spent six years at St. John’s.
“It has been an honor to lead the athletic department at St. John’s University,” said Cragg. “I am proud of what we have accomplished together and am confident that the department is in a strong position for continued success.”
St. John’s noted that the university won six Big East titles across all Division I sports during Cragg’s time as AD. The press release also touted a cumulative 3.51 grade point average among all student-athletes last season.
“I am profoundly thankful for the dedicated and incredible staff of administrators and coaches whose commitment has propelled us forward,” Cragg said. “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.”
Cragg oversaw the program through the COVID-19 pandemic and during a critical period of NIL openings. He also made a huge hiring when landing national champion Rick Pitino to coach the men’s basketball team last season.
“We thank Mike for his leadership and all of his contributions to the University community,” said Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P., President of St. John’s University. “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.”
According to Zach Braziller of the New York Post, St. John’s expects to explore internal and external candidates to replace Cragg. Two potential options are St. John’s Deputy Athletics Director John Diffley and Fordham’s Ed Kull.