St. John’s University’s basketball team faced a heart-wrenching end to their season with a 75-66 loss to the University of Arkansas in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. The defeat was particularly stinging, as the Red Storm entered the tournament as the second seed, brimming with high expectations after a stellar regular season.
A pivotal moment in the game was the performance of RJ Luis Jr., the Big East Player of the Year. The junior guard struggled significantly, shooting only 3-for-17 from the field and missing all three of his three-point attempts, culminating in just nine points. His difficulties led Coach Rick Pitino to bench him during the final 4:56 of the game. When questioned about this decision, Pitino remarked, “You know he was 3-for-17. You know he was 0-for-3 [from 3], so you’re answering your own question.”
Reflecting on his performance and the team’s outcome, an emotional Luis expressed regret, stating, “I let my teammates down.” He further added, “I should’ve been more of a leader. That’s on … .”
The loss was a stark contrast to the team’s earlier successes, including securing the Big East regular-season title and tournament championship. The Red Storm’s shooting woes were evident, as they connected on only 28% of their field goals and a dismal 9.1% from beyond the arc. Key players, including Kadary Richmond, also faced challenges, with Richmond’s foul troubles limiting his impact.
Despite the team’s early exit, the season was not without its highlights. The Red Storm finished with a 31-5 record, tying the program’s record for most wins in a season. Their achievements under Coach Pitino’s leadership marked a significant turnaround, especially considering the previous season’s absence from the NCAA Tournament.
In the aftermath of the game, discussions also centered around the officiating. Analysts and fans alike criticized several controversial foul calls that impacted the flow of the game. One notable instance involved a questionable call against Richmond, leading to his early exit from the game.
Looking ahead, the Red Storm will likely analyze this season’s performance to address areas needing improvement. The experience gained, especially in high-pressure tournament settings, will be invaluable for the team’s development. As for RJ Luis Jr., his decision to test the NBA draft waters reflects his aspirations and the potential he showcased throughout the season.
While the abrupt end to their tournament run is a bitter pill to swallow, the St. John’s basketball program can take pride in their accomplishments and use this experience as a stepping stone for future success.
