St. John’s University is one step closer to its first outright Big East title in 40 years after defeating UConn 50-32 on Sunday. The Red Storm’s shooting woes have been a concern, but with the team’s recent surge from beyond the arc, they’re looking like a legitimate threat in March.
Head coach Rick Pitino praised his team’s performance, calling it their best 40-minute effort of the season. The team’s success is not just due to its vaunted defense and elite athleticism but also its ability to hit shots from distance. St. John’s made eight three-pointers on 16 attempts, a significant improvement over their national ranking.
The Red Storm’s victory was seen as a testament to Pitino’s coaching abilities, which have willed the team back into relevance in the crowded sports market of New York City. The home crowd was electric, with a sellout attendance of nearly 20,000 fans showing their support for the team.
While St. John’s is on a roll, concerns about health are starting to creep in. Star guard Kadary Richmond and point guard Deivon Smith are dealing with injuries, which could impact the team’s chances in the NCAA tournament if they’re not careful.
The Red Storm’s recent surge from three-point range has them trending towards a top-four seed, but if they can continue this momentum, New York City may be dreaming about more than just a Big East title. A Final Four run is within reach, and St. John’s is taking steps to make it happen.
Source: https://www.si.com/college-basketball/st-johns-one-step-closer-to-first-outright-big-east-title-in-40-years