There is renewed controversy about St. John’s basketball following Gary Parrish’s recent comments about the team in the Big East. Even though Parrish ranks St. John’s highly for their impressive transfer and returning talent, sports analysts are now focusing on Rick Pitino’s struggles to keep the team mentally focused and consistent.
Gary Parrish of CBS Sports ranked St. John’s first on his “Way-Too-Early Preseason Top 25 And 1” rankings. He believes in the talent and depth of St. John’s revamped roster and is confident in Pitino’s proven coaching ability.
Dissenting Views Among CBS Analysts
Even though Parrish feels good about St. John’s, CBS analyst Kyle Boone expressed skepticism about their ability to keep up their results. Contrary to Parish’s view, he said he would place Houston as number one, and St. John’s lower in his projections – and he gave solid reasons.
“They were really good last season under Rick Pitino. There’s no question about it. But the lack of continuity on this roster…I think that will end up hurting St. John’s.”
He said that while the team is amazing on defense, the offense is the major question.
“It’s what failed them in the NCAA tournament. It could be what fails them next year, and I don’t have a ton of confidence in their offense going into next season. That is why I would not have them at number one”.
There is plenty of doubt about St. John’s, but their roster really stands out in the Big East. Among their key returning scorers are players who excel at ball-handling, and the team’s frontcourt now boasts improved length and strength. They also have more perimeter shooters than in recent seasons.
The matter is not about talent but consistency and execution in high-pressure conference games. For this reason, St. John’s performance this season could greatly influence Pitino’s long-term plans.
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The divergent opinions among CBS analysts reflect how unclear St. John’s season will be. Gary Parrish thinks the team will do well, but some doubts about the offense are still valid. The Red Storm’s success or failure will be decided by how well Rick Pitino faces these challenges and whether he can stay at the top for a long time.
St. John’s fans will be watching closely, hopeful that Pitino’s strategy leads them to another championship.
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