Rick Pitino is back in the spotlight as a high-major Division 1 coach, but his new-look St. John’s squad has plenty of work to do before they face their next Power 5 opponent. The Red Storm squared off against Michigan at Madsion Square Garden on Monday and failed to set the tone on the defensive end of the floor.
When one player explodes for 21 first-half points against your defense, you either ignored the scouting report or were a step slow on numerous occasions. Based on what I witnessed, I would have to select the latter, as the Red Storm’s transition defense continuously failed to locate Nimari Burnett in a timely fashion. The Alabama transfer netted 21 points in the first 20 minutes of play on 8-13 shooting from the floor (61%). Dug McDaniel added 26 points and seven assists for the Wolverines in impressive fashion. Playing exceptionally low to ground and utilizing your change of pace moves certainly has its benefits, which was evident while watching McDaniel orchestrate the Wolverines’ offense. The 5-foot-11 speedster torched St. John’s routinely with his momentum in-and-out dribble move and crossover jab on his way to the basket. Wisely, McDaniel displayed a relaxed posture to bait his defenders into coming out of their stance before exploding to the rim. He finished things off by pushing the ball out in front of his body (in order to get to his destination in less dribbles) and making the right reads in the paint.
As for St. John’s offensive performance, well, there were definitely some positive takeaways from Monday Night’s defeat, but you have to give Michigan credit for neutralizing Joel Soriano. The Yonkers, New York native is known for using his large frame to bully opposing big men in the paint, but the Wolverines were committed to throwing two bodies at Soriano whenever he received the rock. Yes, he still finished with 15 points on an efficient 6-8 shooting from the field, but because he had limited opportunities to operate in 1-on-1 low post situations, he was unable to impose his will for 40 minutes. It also didn’t help that St. John’s three starting guards combined for 24 points on 5-29 shooting and nine turnovers. In other words, your supporting cast has to be more productive when your go-to-scorer has to work out of double teams on a consistent basis.
If anything, this contest allowed Rick Pitino and his staff to get a sense of where his bunch is through two games. When you have double digit newcomers/transfers on your roster, you might have to endure a few early season losses before you finally hit your stride. Fortunately for the Red Storm, they have a coach who understands the importance of remaining level-headed and possessing a “next game” mentality. Expect St. Johns to bounce back on Thursday against North Texas and secure their second win of the season.
Courtside With Caleb 
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