St. John's basketball team's offensive prowess could be a double-edged sword, but that's not necessarily a problem. Last season, they achieved a remarkable feat by securing the Big East regular-season title and the Big East Tournament championship, their first in decades. This success was despite their poor three-point and free-throw shooting percentages, which ranked low in the nation. However, St. John's made up for these shortcomings with their exceptional offensive rebounding and solid defensive performance, rising to the top of the defensive rankings.
Looking ahead to the 2025-26 season, the team is poised for even greater success. Coach Rick Pitino has assembled a talented group of transfers, transforming the roster into a powerhouse of elite scorers and skilled outside shooters. The team's intrasquad scrimmage showcased their athleticism, fast-paced style, and diverse array of shot-makers. The starting lineup, featuring players like Zuby Ejiofor, Joson Sanon, Bryce Hopkins, Ian Jackson, and Oziyah Sellers, appears particularly formidable.
However, the team's biggest question mark remains their defensive capabilities. Pitino's teams have always emphasized defense, employing various strategies such as press, quick-handed pass deflection, and rim protection. The early signs of their defensive prowess will be evident in an upcoming exhibition game against Michigan and a regular-season match against Alabama.
Last season, St. John's defensive team only began to excel around December, when their communication and coordination clicked. This year, with a challenging schedule that includes five games against top-tier opponents, the team is working hard to improve their defense. High-level summer workouts indicate that they might be on track to meet Pitino's defensive standards.
Pitino acknowledges that the team is still in the process of developing their defensive skills, but he remains confident in their potential. Ejiofor agrees, emphasizing the team's commitment and the coaching staff's focus on defense. Pitino's approach this season is different from last year, where the team focused on improving their offense. Now, the players are learning to play defense while maintaining their offensive skills.
The players' dedication to defense is evident in their words. Sellers expresses their expectation to be a top defensive team, and the team's progress is noticeable daily. However, the Storm must strive for excellence in defense to fully capitalize on their offensive strengths. Roger Rubin, a sports journalist, highlights the team's potential for success, but also emphasizes the need for a strong defense to complement their offensive prowess.
