The Red Storm Just Dominated: Breaking Down the Score
Yes. They absolutely did. If you're looking for the short answer to did st john's win today, the Red Storm just put on a clinic at Madison Square Garden. They didn't just win; they dismantled Marquette 92-68. It was one of those games where everything just sort of clicked after the halftime break.
The Johnnies are currently sitting at a 12-5 record, and they’ve been on a bit of a tear lately. This win marked their third straight BIG EAST victory. Honestly, the first half was a bit of a nail-biter. St. John's was only up by six at the break (40-34), and there was that nagging feeling in the air that the Golden Eagles might claw back. Then the second half happened. Rick Pitino’s squad came out and dropped 52 points in the final 20 minutes.
It’s the first time in program history that the team has hit the 90-point mark in back-to-back conference games. That’s huge. It's not just about the win; it's about the way they’re scoring. They shot over 50% from the floor for the third game in a row. When this team finds their rhythm, they are genuinely scary to watch.
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The Standout Performers Who Sealed the Deal
Oziyah Sellers was the man of the hour. He finished with a season-high 24 points, and he was efficient about it, too. He knocked down four triples and shot over 56% from the field. It’s been a while since we’ve seen him this locked in—his first 20-point game since late November.
Then there’s Zuby Ejiofor. He is becoming a massive problem for opposing centers. Even with some early foul trouble that limited his minutes in the first half, he still managed to put up 22 points and grab seven rebounds. He’s now had seven straight games in double figures.
Key Stats from the Rout
- Final Score: St. John's 92, Marquette 68
- Field Goal Percentage: 51.6% (reaching 50%+ for 3 straight games)
- Free Throw Line: 87.5% (21-for-24), a season-high
- The Run: A 13-0 second-half surge that basically ended the game
One of the more surprising details was how they handled the foul trouble. Bryce Hopkins, the graduate student transfer, had to sit early after picking up two quick fouls. But the bench stepped up. Sadiku Ibine Ayo played 13 "quality minutes" as Pitino called them, providing a defensive spark with three steals.
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Why This Win Actually Matters for the Rankings
People often look at the score and move on, but this victory against Marquette is a statement. Marquette hasn't been their usual dominant self this year—they're 6-12 right now—but a 24-point margin is the largest ever for St. John's in 49 meetings against them.
The "impact" players are starting to separate themselves from the rest of the pack. We're seeing a more defined rotation. While the women's team unfortunately fell to Georgetown 59-34 on the same day, the men's side is building serious momentum as they head into a tough road stretch.
What’s Next for the Red Storm?
If you're keeping track of the schedule, things don't get any easier. The win at the Garden was great, but now they have to take that energy on the road.
- Saturday, Jan 17: Away at Villanova (8:00 PM EST). This is a massive test in Philadelphia.
- Tuesday, Jan 20: Home vs. Seton Hall (7:00 PM EST). Back at the Garden for a local rivalry.
- Saturday, Jan 24: Away at Xavier (2:30 PM EST).
Actionable Insight for Fans: Keep an eye on the injury report for Bryce Hopkins. While he chipped in 12 points today, his foul trouble and limited minutes are something to watch. If St. John's wants to beat Villanova on the road, they need Hopkins on the floor for 30+ minutes. Also, watch the shooting percentage; if they keep hitting 50% from the field, they are a lock for a deep tournament run.
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The Red Storm is officially rolling. If you were worried about their early-season stumbles against Alabama or Iowa State, this recent stretch of BIG EAST play suggests they've finally found their identity under Pitino.