What's Happening?
St. John's Red Storm and DePaul Blue Demons are gearing up for their Big East opener with a renewed focus on defensive strategies. Both teams have recently improved their defensive efficiency, which they
aim to carry into their upcoming game. St. John's, ranked No. 22, secured a decisive 91-64 victory over Iona, while DePaul narrowly defeated Wichita State 61-58. St. John's head coach Rick Pitino emphasized the importance of defense, noting the team's progress since their Las Vegas trip, where they struggled defensively. The Red Storm, who have a 6-3 record, have been working on limiting opponents' scoring, a strategy that paid off in their recent games against Iona and Ole Miss. DePaul, with an 8-3 record, also demonstrated defensive prowess by holding their last two opponents to season-low point totals. The Blue Demons' coach, Chris Holtmann, highlighted the team's growth and the necessity of leading with defense to secure victories.
Why It's Important?
The emphasis on defense by both St. John's and DePaul highlights a strategic shift that could influence their performance in the Big East conference. For St. John's, improving their defensive game is crucial to maintaining their competitive edge, especially after winning the Big East regular season and tournament championships last year. Their ability to limit opponents' scoring could be a decisive factor in their quest to replicate last season's success. DePaul's focus on defense is equally significant as it represents a strategic adaptation that could enhance their competitiveness in the conference. Both teams' commitment to defense not only impacts their immediate game outcomes but also sets a precedent for other teams in the conference, potentially leading to a more defense-oriented style of play across the league.
What's Next?
As St. John's and DePaul prepare for their Big East opener, the outcome of their defensive strategies will be closely watched. Success in their upcoming game could reinforce their defensive focus and influence their approach in future matches. For St. John's, maintaining their defensive momentum is key to improving their standing and potentially securing a higher seed in the NCAA Tournament. DePaul, on the other hand, will look to build on their recent defensive successes to climb the conference rankings. The performance of key players like Bryce Hopkins and Zuby Ejiofor for St. John's, and CJ Gunn for DePaul, will be critical in determining the effectiveness of their defensive strategies.
