After a tough loss that ended their 18-game winning streak, UConn's men's basketball team is gearing up for a rematch against St. John's at PeoplesBank Arena.
Coach Dan Hurley had nothing but respect for the physicality displayed by St. John's, particularly their standout trio: Zuby Ejiofor, Bryce Hopkins, and Dillon Mitchell.
Hurley described them as "grown-ass men," highlighting the challenge his team faces.
In their previous matchup, St. John's relentless full-court press was a game-changer, forcing UConn into 15 turnovers, with nine coming from point guard Silas Demery Jr.
Despite their turnover troubles, UConn managed to bounce back with a win against Villanova, but Demery still had seven turnovers in that game. It's clear that improving ball security is crucial for UConn in this rematch.
Rebounding will also be key, as St. John's outmuscled UConn on the boards last time.
The foul disparity was another surprise, with the Johnnies committing only 15 fouls compared to UConn's 23. St.
John's capitalized at the free-throw line, hitting 22 of 31, while UConn struggled, making just five of 12 attempts.
UConn's shooting was impressive, hitting 55 percent from the field and 47 percent from beyond the arc, yet it wasn't enough to secure a win. Hurley has hinted at some aggressive tactics from St. John's press, but he maintains that officiating wasn't the reason for their loss.
A major focus for UConn will be containing Zuby Ejiofor, a frontrunner for Big East Player of the Year. He was a force in their last meeting, scoring 21 points and grabbing 10 rebounds. UConn's interior defense will need to step up, as they did against Villanova, to handle Ejiofor's challenge.
With both teams ranked in the top 15, this matchup promises to be a thrilling contest. UConn will need to channel some grit and determination to match St. John's physical style and come out on top.
Game Details:
- Matchup: No. 15 St.
John's vs. No.
6 UConn
- Location: PeoplesBank Arena, Hartford
- Time: Wednesday, 7 p.m.
- Radio: UConn Sports Network, Fox Sports Radio 97.9, WAVZ-New Haven (1300 AM), WGCH-Greenwich (1490 AM), WICH-Norwich (1310 AM, 94.5 FM), WILI-Willimantic (1400 AM, 95.3 FM)
St. John's Key Players:
- Dillon Mitchell, Forward: 8.7 PPG
- Joson Sanon, Guard: 8.2 PPG
- Oziyah Sellers, Guard: 10.9 PPG
- Bryce Hopkins, Forward: 14.0 PPG
- Zuby Ejiofor, Forward: 15.9 PPG
UConn Key Players:
- Solo Ball, Guard: 14.2 PPG
- Silas Demary Jr., Guard: 11.4 PPG
- Tarris Reed Jr., Center: 13.6 PPG
- Alex Karaban, Forward: 12.9 PPG
- Braylon Mullins, Forward: 12.3 PPG
As the teams prepare to clash again, all eyes will be on how UConn adjusts to St. John's aggressive style and whether they can turn the tables in front of their home crowd.