As fans gear up for an exciting college basketball match, St. John’s University is ready to take on the Marquette Golden Eagles on March 8, 2025, at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. With their recent achievements, the Red Storm have become the talk of the town, not only for their performance on the court but also for a special appearance on ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’ featuring coach Rick Pitino and the team.
St. John’s Journey to the Top
The Red Storm basketball team has been on a remarkable journey under the guidance of Rick Pitino, their head coach for the past two seasons. With a record of 26 wins and only 4 losses, St. John’s has claimed the title of the 2024-25 Big East Regular Season Champions. The team’s impressive performance has placed them sixth in the AP Top 25 rankings—a significant upgrade compared to their fortunes from 2004-2008.
From Late-night Comedy to National Glory
In a surprising twist, the Red Storm captured national attention through a skit on ‘The Tonight Show’, where they parodied a sea shanty, shining a light on their achievements and the exciting atmosphere surrounding their upcoming game. This comedic segment aired after a tense Knicks game and has helped elevate the profile of St. John’s basketball, showing that they have arrived and are ready to compete at the highest level.
What to Expect Against Marquette
As they approach the game against Marquette, many are predicting victory for the Red Storm thanks to their stellar defense, which ranks as the second-best according to KenPom statistics. Moreover, their rebounding has been exceptional this season, with standout player Zuby Ejiofor leading the charge. Comparatively, Marquette’s team has struggled with inconsistent shooting and rebounding, giving St. John’s an edge going into the match.
Key Players to Watch
- Zuby Ejiofor: Known for his ability to dominate the boards, Ejiofor’s performance will be crucial for St. John’s success.
- RJ Luis: Keep an eye on him for some significant contributions from the three-point line.
- Rick Pitino: As a coach with a remarkable history of turning programs around, his strategies and leadership will be key in high-pressure situations.
How to Watch the Big Game
The showdown between St. John’s and Marquette will be broadcast live on FOX at 12:00 p.m. ET, ensuring that fans from all over can catch the action either from home or at local sports viewing parties. Given both teams’ recent form, it’s sure to be a thrilling encounter!
Betting Odds and Predictions
For those interested in the betting scene, St. John’s is favored to win, with bets suggesting a same-game parlay might include St. John’s moneyline, along with player-specific bets like over 1.5 threes for RJ Luis and over 8.5 rebounds for Ejiofor. Fans are eagerly watching how these odds shift as game day approaches.
An Exciting Season Ahead
As the Red Storm aim to secure their place in the NCAA tournament, this game against Marquette is a significant milestone. With everything on the line and the energy building up, the team’s hopes are high to add another emblem of success to their storied program. As Rick Pitino leads them forward, fans and players alike are ready for what is promised to be an unforgettable game.