No. 9 St. John’s Dominates No. 24 Creighton, Seizing Big East Lead with Stellar Defense

"St. John's Tops Creighton, Takes Big East Lead with Strong Defense"

St. John's secured a gritty 79-73 victory over Creighton, boosting their Big East title hopes, led by standout performances from RJ Luis and Kadary Richmond.

Jake Thompson17 February 2025Last Update : 6 days ago

No. 9 St. John's in Big East driver's seat after defense keys win over No. 24 Creighton

nypost.com

St. John’s basketball team is making waves in the Big East after a thrilling victory over Creighton on February 16, 2025. The ninth-ranked Johnnies secured a gritty 79-73 win, putting them in a strong position for their first Big East regular-season title since 1986. Can they maintain this momentum as the season progresses?

6 Key Takeaways

St. John's wins crucial game at MSG.
Rick Pitino's vision for the team realized.
Strong defensive performance secures victory.
RJ Luis shines with 23 points, 14 rebounds.
Pitino emphasizes need for continued focus.
Richmond stresses importance of avoiding slip-ups.

Fast Answer: St. John’s defeated Creighton 79-73, solidifying their lead in the Big East standings. With a strong defensive performance and key contributions from players like RJ Luis and Kadary Richmond, the Johnnies are on track for their first conference title in decades. Will they keep this winning streak alive?

St. John’s Takes Control of Big East with Key Win Over Creighton

How important is defense in basketball? For St. John’s, it was the key to their success against Creighton. The Johnnies held the Bluejays to just 35% shooting in the second half, showcasing their defensive prowess. This victory not only boosts their confidence but also places them firmly in the driver’s seat of the Big East.

Success! St. John’s recent win is significant for their Big East title aspirations. As they continue to perform well, fans are excited about the possibility of a championship run.

Key Players Shine in St. John’s Victory Over Creighton

In a game filled with standout performances, several players rose to the occasion. RJ Luis led the charge with 23 points and 14 rebounds, while Kadary Richmond added 19 points and 10 rebounds. Their combined efforts were crucial in overcoming Creighton’s early lead.

Defensive Strategy: The Backbone of St. John’s Success

St. John’s defensive strategy has been a game-changer this season. By focusing on tight defense and capitalizing on turnovers, they have managed to turn games around even when trailing. Here are some key strategies that have contributed to their success:

Strong perimeter defense limiting opponents’ three-point shooting.
Effective transition defense to prevent fast breaks.
Forcing turnovers and converting them into points.
Maintaining composure in high-pressure situations.

Looking Ahead: Can St. John’s Maintain Their Winning Streak?

With five games left in the regular season, the Johnnies must stay focused. Coach Rick Pitino emphasizes the importance of consistency and avoiding complacency. As they aim for their first Big East title in nearly four decades, every game counts. The upcoming matchups will be crucial in determining their fate.

As the season heats up, St. John’s fans are eager to see if their team can continue this impressive run. Will they secure the Big East title, or will the pressure prove too much? Only time will tell.