St. John’s Red Storm Off to Rocky Start, Lose to Alabama Despite Stacked Roster
Red Storm’s Early Struggles
Despite being heralded as the preseason No. 1 back in April, the St. John’s Red Storm have gotten off to a bumpy start in the 2021-22 college basketball season. In their second game, they fell to the Alabama Crimson Tide, 103-96, on Saturday at Madison Square Garden.
Late Decisions Pay Off for Alabama
Labaron Philon’s late decision to return to Alabama proved crucial as he led the Crimson Tide to a stunning upset against the heavily-favored Red Storm. Philon finished with 21 points and 17 rebounds.
Rick Pitino’s Puzzling Coaching Decisions
They were a better basketball team than we were tonight. We could not guard them off the dribble.
St. John’s head coach Rick Pitino, a Naismith Memorial Hall of Famer, struggled with lineup decisions, notably benching Ian Jackson, his previously anointed “next great point guard.” Instead, Pitino started Oziyah Sellers, who had limited experience at the position.
Top 25 And 1 Rankings Shift
- St. John’s drops to No. 11
- Purdue rises to No. 1
- Alabama climbs to No. 10
- UCLA, Kentucky, Iowa State, Louisville, and Illinois each drop one spot
Did You Know?
This loss marked St. John’s first game this season where they trailed by more than 5 points.
Pro Tip
Keep an eye on the Red Storm’s lineup changes as Pitino looks to find the right formula for success.
FAQs
- Why is St. John’s struggling? Coach Pitino’s lineup decisions, notably benching Ian Jackson, have raised eyebrows.
- Who led Alabama to victory? Labaron Philon led the Crimson Tide with 21 points and 17 rebounds.
Call to Action
What do you think about St. John’s slow start and Rick Pitino’s lineup decisions? Leave your thoughts in the comments below!