NEW YORK — The echoes of a dominant performance at Madison Square Garden reverberated through the Big East on Saturday, as St. John’s extended its winning streak to 13 games with an 81-52 rout of Creighton. The victory marks the program’s longest winning streak in 41 years, a testament to a remarkable turnaround under coach Rick Pitino and a surge in confidence that’s quickly establishing the Red Storm as a force in college basketball. The blowout, the largest in a Big East game for St. John’s since February 2022, wasn’t just about the score; it was a statement.
The Red Storm (22-5, 15-1 Big East) led wire-to-wire, holding Creighton to just 32% shooting from the field. Bryce Hopkins led the way with 15 points and 10 rebounds, although Dylan Darling sparked the offense off the bench with 17 points. Zuby Ejiofor added 15 of his own, contributing to a balanced attack that proved too much for the Bluejays to handle. The win solidifies St. John’s position atop the Big East standings, a half-game ahead of UConn, and fuels growing optimism about a potential conference championship and a deep run in the NCAA tournament.
This resurgence wasn’t immediate. The Red Storm started the season with a 4-3 record, raising questions about their ability to compete at a high level. But Pitino, known for his demanding coaching style and ability to instill discipline, quickly turned things around. “This was the best defense we played all season,” Pitino said after the game, emphasizing the team’s focus and respect for their opponent. That defensive intensity was evident throughout the contest, forcing 18 turnovers and limiting Creighton’s opportunities.
The Emergence of a Bench Spark
While Hopkins and Ejiofor have been consistent contributors all season, the recent emergence of players like Darling has been a key factor in St. John’s success. Darling, who was scoreless in his previous game against Marquette, provided a much-needed boost off the bench, showcasing a “tenacity and toughness defensively” that Creighton coach Greg McDermott acknowledged in the handshake line. His four rebounds, three assists, and three steals demonstrated a well-rounded impact that extended beyond scoring.
Mitchell’s All-Around Impact
Equally important has been the play of senior forward Dillon Mitchell. While he didn’t attempt a field goal against Marquette, his impact on the game was undeniable, and he continued to contribute in multiple ways against Creighton, finishing with 10 rebounds, seven assists, and zero turnovers. Pitino lauded Mitchell as a “summa cum laude basketball player,” praising his ability to consistently secure rebounds and make smart decisions. “If you have to get a rebound in the game, he’s the guy that’s going to get it,” Pitino said. Mitchell’s unselfish play and all-around skill set have made him an invaluable asset to the Red Storm.
Looking Ahead: A Showdown with UConn
St. John’s winning streak is reminiscent of the program’s glory days, evoking memories of the 1984-85 season when they embarked on a 19-game winning streak en route to a No. 1 national ranking and a Final Four appearance. However, the road ahead won’t be effortless. The Red Storm will face a significant test on Wednesday night when they travel to Connecticut to take on the Huskies, who also boast a strong record in the Big East. A victory over UConn would not only extend their winning streak but also give them a commanding lead in the conference standings. Ian Jackson, who has been sidelined with a sprained right ankle, is expected to be available for the game, adding another weapon to St. John’s arsenal.
The team’s success is a testament to the players’ dedication, the coaching staff’s preparation, and a growing belief in their ability to compete with the best teams in the country. As they prepare for their upcoming matchup against UConn, the Red Storm will seem to continue their remarkable run and solidify their position as a legitimate contender for the national championship.
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