St. John’s Red Storm’s surprising Rise in the Big East

At the start of the basketball season, St. John’s Red Storm entered unranked and was anticipated to secure a fifth-place finish in the Big East according to media projections. However, their unexpected journey has left fans and analysts alike astonished. Securing a commanding lead in the Big East’s regular season race, the Johnnies achieved a season sweep over the back-to-back national champions, UConn.
This series of decisive victories positions the Red Storm well for a return to the top ten in the AP poll, with a potential ascent to No. 6 — its highest ranking as 1999.
Under the guidance of Coach Rick Pitino, St. John’s is on a path to accomplish what has not been done in nearly four decades: winning the Big east outright, a feat last achieved in 1986.Such an accomplishment would mark a notable milestone in the team’s history.
Analysts project a reshuffling in the rankings this week, with Alabama possibly departing from the top five and St. John’s vying for a top-five spot. The critical takeaway is that after their victory, St. John’s has placed itself in contention alongside the league’s powerhouses.
Notable Movements in Rankings
One team expected to drop out of the top 25 rankings is creighton, while several others, including Texas Tech, Iowa State, Texas A&M, and alabama, have experienced setbacks contributing to the upward trajectory of the Red Storm.
What specific player(s) have been instrumental in St. John’s success this season?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How has St. John’s performed this season, and how does it compare to pre-season predictions?
A: St. John’s has defied expectations, dominating the Big East conference and taking a commanding lead in the regular season race. they were projected to finish fifth but are now a serious contender for the Big East title outright and a top-five ranking in the AP poll.
Q: What major wins have contributed to St. John’s success?
A: Their most impressive feat was sweeping the back-to-back national champions, UConn, in a series of decisive victories.
Q: When was the last time St. John’s won the Big East outright?
A: It has been nearly four decades since St. John’s last won the Big East championship, with the last victory coming in 1986. This season presents a historic opportunity for them to repeat that feat.
Q: What factors have contributed to the upward trajectory of St. John’s in the rankings?
A: St. john’s impressive wins,coupled with setbacks experienced by other top teams like Alabama,Texas Tech,Iowa State,Texas A&M,and Creighton,have fueled their climb in the rankings.
St. John’s Red Storm’s unexpected rise has the college basketball world buzzing. Will they continue their winning streak and claim the Big east crown? Only time will tell.