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Butler Basketball: Keys to success at home against St. John’s

By Lukas Harkins

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - JANUARY 16: St. John's Red Storm players stretch before the game against the Butler Bulldogs wearing tee shirts honoring Butler player Andrew Smith at Hinkle Fieldhouse on January 16, 2016 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Butler defeated St John's 78-58. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - JANUARY 16: St. John's Red Storm players stretch before the game against the Butler Bulldogs wearing tee shirts honoring Butler player Andrew Smith at Hinkle Fieldhouse on January 16, 2016 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Butler defeated St John's 78-58. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /
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NEW YORK, NY – MARCH 09: Thompson and Baldwin of the Butler Bulldogs fight. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY – MARCH 09: Thompson and Baldwin of the Butler Bulldogs fight. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /

1. Defend the 3-point line

St. John’s is arguably one of the most dangerous 3-point shooting teams in the nation. For the season, the Red Storm are attempting nearly two-fifths of their total shots from beyond the arc while hitting on 39.5% of them (15th nationally). The team features several capable shooters from beyond the arc and every single Butler player will need to be prepared to run around screens and contest without fouling.

Thankfully, the Dawgs boast several strong perimeter defenders. Aaron Thompson and Baldwin are clearly the most notable but it would be a mistake to overlook the defensive capabilities of junior wing Henry Baddley. Through the first five Big East games of this season, Butler has been one of the best teams in the conference at defending the 3-point line. They are limiting opponents to just 32.8% from distance.

In order to secure this victory over St. John’s, Butler will need to stay vigilant in locking down the perimeter. When forced to drive, the Red Storm can consistently finish but do not draw a ton of fouls. And while Butler does commit a bunch of fouls around the basket, forcing St. John’s into a tougher shot around the basket with the chance of free throws could be a better outcome than a wide-open trifecta.