What's Happening?
St. John's University has achieved its highest preseason ranking in the Associated Press poll, marking a significant milestone for the basketball program. Under the leadership of Rick Pitino, the team is ranked fifth, a position it has not held since the 1991-92 season. This ranking comes after a successful previous season where St. John's won the Big East regular-season and postseason titles and secured its first NCAA Tournament victory since 2000. The team has strengthened its roster by acquiring top talent through the transfer portal, including players from North Carolina, Cincinnati, Stanford, Providence, and Arizona State. The upcoming season features a challenging non-conference schedule, with games against highly ranked teams such as Michigan and Alabama.
Why It's Important?
The high preseason ranking for St. John's is a testament to the program's resurgence and the strategic moves made by Coach Rick Pitino. This development is significant for the Big East Conference, as it highlights the competitive nature of the league with multiple teams ranked in the top 25. The ranking also boosts the visibility and reputation of St. John's, potentially attracting more talent and increasing fan engagement. The team's performance against top-tier opponents will be crucial in maintaining its ranking and proving its capabilities on a national stage. Success in the upcoming season could lead to increased support and investment in the program.
What's Next?
St. John's will face a rigorous schedule, starting with an exhibition match against Michigan at Madison Square Garden. The team will play 13 games at MSG, the most in its history at the venue. The performance in these games will be critical in determining whether the team can sustain its high ranking. Coach Pitino has emphasized the importance of these early tests against strong opponents to gauge the team's readiness and potential for the season. The outcomes of these matches will likely influence the team's strategy and adjustments moving forward.
