After the Providence game there was a major shift in momentum for the St. John’s Men’s Basketball team, as in the month of January they have been letting the BIG EAST see the type of quality team that they can be.
Taking a long look in the mirror and being able to answer and respond to all the things they had hoped to fix, in addition responding well to the system that Head Coach Rick Pitino instilled in them, has gotten the guys to win seven-straight content and going to a 9-1 record in conference play.
While it is still early many may wonder if this can be the team that can continue to play well and carry on the momentum going into February and beyond.
It is going to be a challenging test for sure but the one thing that is noted is the shift in the momentum for St. John’s.
Fans are encouraged to enjoy the following press conference videos:
Butler Head Coach Thad Matta:
Coach Pitino along with Dillon Mitchell and Zuby Ejiofor:
A big part of that shift is Senior Dillon Mitchell, as he is mentoring guys like Ian Jackson. Jackson seeing huge improvement in his play thanks to his constant improvement and open mindednesses to the teachings of his squad is looking better and better with every game that he plays.
It is because of the team play that the guys are starting to shatter the record books as they have been able to win nine of the first 10 league games since 1984-85, got to see Coach Pitino reach a milestone in his 900th win and are about to see another milestone in Zuby getting his 1,000-career point.
The Red Storm featured a bit of everything offense wise from highlight reel dunk plays, fine three-point shooting and overall, an improved quality when it comes time for defense. One of the themes that is continuing from the start of the year is the team’s defense leading to offense as those that were watching the game seeing the lengthiness of the team leading to those highlight reel dunks.
Mitchell getting rewarded for being an offensive playmaker, got his third double-double of his last four appearances as he had 14 points and a season-high 13 rebounds.
Jackson had a team-high 18 points and went a perfect 5-for-5 from the free throw line and Ejiofor went an incredible 66.7 percent (6-9 FG) along with six rebounds and a game-high five assists and three blocks.
From here the BIG EAST Conference is going to be a fascinating one as the guys go on the road to face DePaul before returning home to face the University of Connecticut.
To stay up to date on all things St. John’s Men’s Basketball fans are encouraged to click on the link here:
St. John’s University Athletics – Official Athletics Website