UConn's quest for a share of the Big East regular season title hinges on a high-stakes showdown against St. John’s in Hartford. Rick Pitino's Red Storm, aiming to defend their league title, hold a slim lead over the sixth-ranked Huskies after a decisive 81-72 victory that snapped UConn's 18-game winning streak at Madison Square Garden.
A victory for UConn would knot the teams at the top of the standings, each with two losses, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the regular season. The Huskies still have matchups against Seton Hall and Marquette, while St. John’s faces Villanova and Georgetown before wrapping up at Seton Hall.
Even if UConn wins and both teams finish strong, St. John’s would still claim the No. 1 seed in the Big East Tournament due to head-to-head results.
Both teams boast perfect records against third-place Villanova and fourth-place Seton Hall, but the tie-breaker hinges on Creighton, whom St. John’s swept and UConn split.
For UConn to gain an edge, Providence would need to surpass Creighton in the standings unless St. John’s stumbles down the stretch.
Here’s what UConn needs to focus on in this crucial matchup:
Ball Security
St. John’s leads the league in turnover margin, and their disruptive defense was on full display at MSG, converting 15 UConn turnovers into 20 points.
Nine of those turnovers came from point guard Silas Demary Jr., who has struggled with ball security against Pitino’s teams before. Demary’s performance will be crucial, as he’s had similar issues in past games, including seven turnovers in UConn’s recent win at Villanova.
Coach Hurley emphasized the need for smarter play: “They’re avoidable mistakes. It’s about changing angles and speeds with every dribble.”
Bench Production
Earlier this month, UConn’s bench struggled to provide support when starters faltered. Backup point guard Malachi Smith played only five minutes against St.
John’s, while Jaylin Stewart and Jayden Ross saw limited action with minimal impact. Eric Reibe also faced challenges against the Red Storm's physical play.
However, in their last outing in Philadelphia, Hurley showed more confidence in his reserves, resulting in 22 bench points on efficient shooting, alongside strong rebounding and defense. The bench will need to replicate this intensity against St. John’s.
Protect the Paint
St. John’s frontcourt trio of Zuby Ejiofor, Bryce Hopkins, and Dillon Mitchell combined for 50 points on 65% shooting in their previous encounter. UConn must manage the physicality without fouling, a problem in their last meeting.
UConn's defense, reminiscent of their nonconference form, will be key. Reibe’s ability to stay on the court and assist Reed in maintaining a strong paint presence will be vital.
Coach Hurley praised the bigs’ defensive versatility: “They showed they can disrupt ball screens and make it tough on opponents. We can’t let each other down.”
Game Details
- Location: PeoplesBank Arena, Hartford
- Time: 7 p.m.
Wednesday
- Series: St.
John’s leads, 40-34
- Last Meeting: Feb.
7, 2026 - St. John’s 81, UConn 72 at Madison Square Garden
This matchup promises to be a thrilling chapter in the Big East saga, with UConn looking to assert themselves at home and keep their title hopes alive.