Rick Pitino’s return to the Big East with St. John’s has generated considerable buzz. Many anticipate a swift return to national prominence after a solid 2024 season that resulted in the program’s first Second Round appearance since 2000.
While the team has seen significant improvements, some analysts believe they fall just outside the top 10 teams in college basketball. However, the reason for this ranking might not be what many assume.
What Is Rick Pitino’s Biggest Roadblock at St. John’s?
According to analyst Isaac Troder on the “247Sports College Basketball Show” podcast, St. John’s isn’t being held back by internal issues, such as a point guard, but rather by the heightened competition due to other teams’ strategic acquisitions.
Troder pinpoints the strengthening of rival teams as the primary reason for St. John’s being ranked 11th.
“Honestly, just because of the additions, right? Like I they would have been in the top 10 if Michigan didn’t get Yaxel Lendorg back. You know, I think that would have been the group there. For me, St. John’s is 11.”
Lendeborg, ranked as the No. 1 player in the transfer portal, significantly elevates Michigan’s competitiveness. Despite some earlier concerns about the team’s roster construction, Troder expresses confidence in Pitino’s ability to overcome any perceived weaknesses in the point guard position.
“To give you my St. John’s little pitch, terrific defensively. I think they’re going to be awesome in transition. I don’t really think the point guard issue is going to be a problem for me.”
This statement highlights Troder’s belief in Pitino’s coaching acumen and the team’s overall capabilities. He suggests that St. John’s can find alternative ways to manage the game effectively and that a traditional point guard might be overrated in today’s basketball landscape.
“If Bryce Hopkins is healthy… he’s only played four games since New Year’s Day in 2024, which you know, feels like forever ago. If he’s healthy… they’re going to be awesome,” he continued.
Rick Pitino’s Proven Track Record Bodes Well For “Johnnies”
Pitino’s track record demonstrates his ability to transform programs quickly. He has a history of success at various schools, including Iona, where he swiftly made his mark.
His ability to build a strong defense and facilitate a fast-paced transition game is a key factor that could mitigate any point guard concerns.
RELATED: Rick Pitino’s St. John’s Draws National Title Buzz After Big Transfer Haul
Even though St. John’s might not boast a roster filled with surefire All-Americans or possible future NBA players, Pitino knows a thing or two about getting the most out of his players, and with Pitino’s coaching ability and the fact that St. John’s can play defense, St. John’s can surprise and exceed expectations.
While not having a true point guard may have been a concern for some, St. John’s biggest hurdle in breaking the top-10 is not an internal deficiency, but the external improvement of the teams they are competing against.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
