Road games in league play are always tough, something St. John’s Basketball found out the hard way early on. They were down big early, trailing by as much as 16 points and by 13 at the midway mark. But the Red Storm wasn't done yet, slowly returning to take the lead late.
In what ended up being a thrilling finish, St. John’s won the game at the buzzer, thanks to a Zuby Ejiofor putback for the 72-70 road win. There was plenty to take away from this game. Here are three specific postgame keys.
1. Zuby and offensive rebounds
It’s fitting that the game's final play involved the two biggest strengths for the Red Storm… it’s starting center and offensive rebounds. As a team, St. John’s ranks in the top 15 nationally in offensive rebounds, scoring 18 in the game. Ejiofor led the team with 19 points and 10 rebounds, including the final moments. The sophomore breakout big man continues his stellar play as the clear star of the team.
2. Deivon Smith was the lead guard on the night
New guards Smith and Kadary Richmond have taken turns running the offense this season. Smith played most of Friday night's second half, while Richmond played just seven minutes. The former Utah Ute finished with 17 points and four assists, including 10 in the second half. The long-term issue will be having both of them play well together, but for now, it was good to see Smith breakthrough.
3. Warning signs remain for St. John’s
Winning on the road is impressive no matter what, especially considering how poorly they played in other areas of the game. St. John’s shot just 40% from the field, 3/18 from three-point range, 8/18 on layups, and 11/26 from the free throw line.
Without Bryce Hopkins, Providence was very vulnerable. But St. John’s won’t get away with these kinds of performances going forward. The Red Storm can’t afford slip-ups against inferior competition in a Big East that may not offer many spots for the Big Dance. Last night, it was just good enough to escape with the road win.