What's Happening?
Rick Pitino, coach of the St. John's Red Storm, has issued a challenge to his team to become more physical in their gameplay. Despite winning their first outright regular-season Big East title since 1985,
Pitino believes the team needs to improve their physical presence to become a great team. The Red Storm's defense has been impressive, ranking second nationally on KenPom.com, but Pitino sees room for improvement in physicality and shot-blocking. The team is preparing for their upcoming game against William & Mary, with Pitino emphasizing the need for a more physical approach.
Why It's Important?
Pitino's call for increased physicality is crucial for St. John's as they aim to maintain their competitive edge and achieve their Final Four aspirations. The team's defensive prowess has been a key factor in their success, but Pitino's focus on physicality highlights the need for a balanced approach that combines both defensive and offensive strengths. This challenge is an opportunity for the team to develop a more robust playing style that can withstand tougher opponents and lead to greater success in the season.
What's Next?
St. John's will face William & Mary at Carnesecca Arena, followed by matches against Iowa State and Baylor in a Thanksgiving week tournament in Las Vegas. These games will test the team's ability to implement Pitino's challenge and adapt to a more physical style of play. The team's performance in these upcoming matches will be crucial in determining their readiness for the season and their potential to achieve their goals.
