St. John's Captures First Big East Title Since 1985

In an exhilarating matchup at Madison Square Garden, St. John's University made history by clinching its first BIG EAST basketball title since 1985. The Red Storm triumphed over Seton Hall with a score of 71-61, securing the No. 1 seed for the upcoming BIG EAST Tournament. Under the expert leadership of Coach Rick Pitino, St. John’s achieved an impressive 26-4 overall record and a stellar 17-2 mark in conference play.

Key Performers Shining Bright

The standout performance came from RJ Luis Jr., who led the charge with 21 points. His contributions, along with Zuby Ejiofor's double-double of 17 points and 10 rebounds, were crucial in sealing the victory. This success reflects not only individual talent but also the cohesive team effort that has characterized the Red Storm this season.

Season Highlights:

• Record: 26 wins, 4 losses
• Conference Record: 17 wins, 2 losses
• Head Coach: Rick Pitino, notable for revitalizing the program

A Historic Turnaround

Coach Pitino’s influence cannot be understated in this transformative season. Previously, the program had struggled, posting only one 10-win conference season in the last eight years. This championship win resonates deeply, especially in the same year that St. John's mourned the loss of legendary coach Lou Carnesecca, who last brought the Big East title to the university.

Looking Ahead: The BIG EAST Tournament

With this title under their belt, St. John's is gearing up for the BIG EAST Tournament, where they will aim to continue their momentum and solidify their status as frontrunners. Pitino's strategies and the team's hard work will be paramount as they approach the postseason.

Notable Quotes from Coach Pitino:

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