In a thrilling match at Madison Square Garden on February 23rd, 2025, the St. John’s Red Storm delivered an impressive performance against their longtime rivals, the UConn Huskies, securing a resounding victory with a score of 89-75. This significant win not only brought St. John’s joy but also marked the first season sweep of UConn since the 1999-2000 season, inching them closer to clinching their first outright Big East regular season title since 1985.
St. John’s Dominates the Court
From the very beginning, St. John’s showcased their strength and teamwork throughout the game. The players brought their A-game, and all five starters scored in double figures. Kadary Richmond and Zuby Ejiofor each contributed 18 points, proving their worth on both ends of the court. The team’s ability to maintain momentum and focus was evident, allowing them to build a comfortable lead.
- The game started with St. John’s racing to an early lead.
- St. John’s led UConn by 18 points at halftime.
- UConn struggled with turnovers, committing 18 during the game.
- This translated into 24 points for St. John’s, showcasing their defensive skills.
- UConn’s Liam McNeeley had a tough night, struggling with only 2-of-13 shooting from the field.
A Historic Moment for St. John’s
This victory is a historic moment for St. John’s basketball, inspiring fans and players alike. The reducing of a 25-year gap for a season sweep over UConn shows hard work and determination of the entire team. The spirit of the players shone brightly, and the stands at Madison Square Garden echoed with cheers from excited fans who had come to witness a game that meant so much.
The Road Ahead: Big East Title in Sight
With this victory, St. John’s has positioned itself well to vie for the Big East championship. The team’s success is a result of diligent preparation and strategic gameplay. Looking ahead, a win in their next game against Butler will guarantee at least a share of the title, providing further motivation for these rising stars.
Current Big East Standings
| Team | Record |
|---|---|
| St. John’s | 20-8 |
| UConn | 17-10 |
| Creighton | 18-9 |
| Xavier | 15-11 |
Looking Back: The Atmosphere at Madison Square Garden
As fans filled the stands donning red and white, the energy was truly electric, reminiscent of the great matches from the past. Nineteen days prior, as St. John’s closed in on an exciting victory over Marquette, the echoes of chants celebrating St. John’s resurgence filled the arena, creating a sense of unity and pride among the supporters.
What’s Next for St. John’s?
As the regular season hurries to a close, every game becomes critical. With three more matches to play after UConn, St. John’s aims to carry this winning momentum into the postseason. Coach Rick Pitino’s leadership continues to nurture the growth of this talented team, as they focus on teamwork and making smart plays. It’s an exciting time for St. John’s basketball, and fans are eager to see how they will perform in the upcoming games.
