Full Breakdown
St. John's Begins Tough Path to Defend Big East Title Against DePaul
12/16/2025, 12:08:13 PM
St. John's Conference Title Defense Underway
St. John's University is set to commence its defense of the Big East championship on Tuesday night against DePaul at Carnesecca Arena in Queens. The 22nd-ranked Red Storm, with a current record of 6-3, are looking to build on their recent strong defensive performances, having held opponents Ole Miss and Iona to season-low points. This matchup is part of a challenging four-game stretch over ten days, which includes a highly anticipated game against Kentucky and another against Harvard.
Last season, St. John's experienced a similar trajectory, bouncing back from a disappointing trip to the Bahamas to secure their first outright regular-season title since 1984-85. Coach Rick Pitino acknowledges that the competition in the Big East has intensified this year, stating, “The Big East is going to be tougher this year. We’re not going to win like we did last year. I think we can defend it, with our defense getting a lot better.”
DePaul's Performance and Challenges
DePaul enters this game with an 8-3 record, having faced inconsistency in their performance. The Blue Demons have suffered a notable loss to Buffalo but managed to secure wins against Wichita State and Morgan State. Historically, DePaul has struggled against St. John's, losing their last seven encounters, with recent games decided by an average margin of 26.8 points.
Key Players and Team Dynamics
St. John's tri-captain Zuby Ejiofor has been instrumental in the team's defensive efforts, averaging 9.5 rebounds and eight blocks over the last two games. Ian Jackson, who recently transitioned to the point guard position, contributed significantly in the win against Iona, scoring 14 points and showcasing his potential as a key player moving forward. Pitino has emphasized the importance of improved perimeter defense and reducing turnovers as the team progresses through the season.
Broader Implications for the Big East
As the Big East conference play begins, the landscape appears competitive yet challenging for teams like St. John's and UConn, who are expected to contend for the title. The conference has seen a decline in overall depth, with only eight Quad One wins recorded thus far. St. John's faces pressure to secure victories to enhance their NCAA Tournament resume, especially given the limited opportunities for high-quality wins within the conference schedule.
Official Statements & Responses
Rick Pitino remarked on the team's progress, stating, “Better perimeter defense, better paying attention to scouting... We’re getting better and better.” He expressed optimism about the team's trajectory, highlighting the importance of continued improvement as they navigate a demanding schedule.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics have pointed out the lack of depth in the Big East, suggesting that the conference's current state may not reflect its historical reputation as a powerhouse in college basketball. Concerns have been raised about the limited opportunities for teams like St. John's to bolster their NCAA Tournament resumes compared to teams in other power conferences.
What's Next
Following the game against DePaul, St. John's will face Kentucky, a matchup that could significantly impact their standing in the conference and their overall season trajectory. The Red Storm will need to capitalize on their strengths and address areas for improvement to maintain their championship aspirations.
