In a thrilling Big East showdown, the No. 12 St. John’s Red Storm showcased their championship mettle, rallying from a 14-point deficit to stun the No. 19 UConn Huskies 68-62 on Friday night. The hard-fought road victory extended St. John’s winning streak to an impressive 10 games.
Pitino’s Squad Digs Deep
Trailing by double digits and struggling to find their rhythm, coach Rick Pitino’s Red Storm refused to fold. Led by the clutch heroics of RJ Luis Jr. and Kadary Richmond, St. John’s unleashed a spirited second-half surge.
We’re the 11th-ranked team in the country. I don’t think we have to show anybody. We play great basketball.
– Rick Pitino on his team’s refusal to back down
Luis Jr. Comes Up Clutch
RJ Luis Jr. proved to be the catalyst, scoring 6 of his team-high 21 points in the final 2:16 to seal the comeback. His back-to-back jumpers turned the tide as St. John’s regained the lead and never looked back.
Richmond Catches Fire
After a quiet first half, Kadary Richmond came alive when it mattered most. The dynamic guard poured in all 13 of his points in the second half, providing a much-needed spark for the Red Storm offense.
Defensive Intensity Fuels Rally
While the offense found its groove, it was St. John’s suffocating defense that turned the game around. The Red Storm forced crucial turnovers and held UConn scoreless for long stretches, outscoring the Huskies 18-2 in points off turnovers.
- St. John’s extends winning streak to 10 games, longest in Big East play since 1984-85
- Fifth double-digit comeback win this season, tied for most in the nation
Huskies’ Offense Goes Cold
UConn, who looked dominant early behind the hot shooting of Liam McNeeley and Solo Ball, went ice cold in the second half. The Huskies’ leading scorers combined for 22 points in the first half but were shut out after intermission.
Big East Title Hopes Bolstered
With the statement win, St. John’s improves to 21-3 overall and 12-1 in Big East play, solidifying their position atop the conference standings. The Red Storm’s 10-game Big East winning streak is their longest since the 1984-85 Final Four season, raising hopes for another deep tournament run.
RJ Luis Jr. scored six of his 21 points in the final 2:16 to help No. 12 St. John’s extend its winning streak to 10 games with a 68-62 comeback victory over No. 19 UConn on Friday night.
As Rick Pitino’s squad continues to find ways to win, the college basketball world is taking notice. With their never-say-die attitude and balanced attack, St. John’s is emerging as a serious contender for the Big East title and beyond. The Red Storm will look to keep the momentum going as they head to Villanova for another crucial conference clash on Wednesday.
