In a thrilling finale to the regular season, St. John’s University pulled off an incredible 86-84 overtime victory against Marquette at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee. This unforgettable game featured Zuby Ejifor hitting a buzzer-beater that sealed the win and marked a significant moment for the Red Storm.
Exciting Overtime Thriller
As the clock wound down in overtime, the tension was palpable. St. John’s, ranked sixth in the nation, faced off against the 20th-ranked Marquette team, who were fighting hard on their Senior Day. In what turned out to be a back-and-forth battle, the game came down to the final moments when Ejifor made a swift move, receiving a crucial pass from Simeon Wilcher to sink the game-winning shot just as the buzzer sounded.
Standout Performances
This match didn’t just come down to one fantastic shot. RJ Luis Jr. was a major contributor for St. John’s, leading the team with 28 points and 11 rebounds. In addition, Kadary Richmond made history by scoring a triple-double with 10 points, 12 rebounds, and 11 assists. For Marquette, Kam Jones gave a remarkable performance, scoring 32 points in his last game at home — a feat that highlighted his prolific scoring ability throughout his college career.
A Game Full of Surprises
The game had its share of twists and turns. Marquette took a brief lead in overtime, showcasing their determination, but St. John’s refused to back down. With seconds left, Richmond made a spectacular steal, turning the tide in favor of the Red Storm. This clutch play set the stage for Ejifor’s buzzer-beater, sending the St. John’s bench into jubilation.
Big East Implications
This victory is not just a win; it carries significant implications for the NCAA Tournament. With this triumph, St. John’s solidified their position in the tournament, extending their winning streak to six games and improving their overall record to 27-4. Meanwhile, the loss places Marquette in a challenging spot as they prepare for upcoming tournament play, having dropped three of their last five games.
Coach Pitino’s Strategies
St. John’s head coach, Rick Pitino, praised his team’s resilience and dedication. He has emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum, especially with a high seeding in the NCAA Tournament at stake. Pitino, known for his motivational style and strategic acumen, believes this win will give his players the confidence they need heading into the playoffs.
What’s Next for St. John’s?
As the Red Storm gear up for the Big East tournament, they will aim to carry this winning energy forward. Coach Pitino and his players are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and are focused on translating their success on the court into postseason victories. The next challenge will undoubtedly test their mettle and determination, but if this game showed anything, it’s that St. John’s has what it takes to compete at the highest level.
Final Thoughts
What an incredible way to wrap up the regular season! The game not only celebrated the skills of the players but also highlighted the electric atmosphere of college basketball. Fans, players, and coaches alike will remember Ejifor’s buzzer-beater as a pivotal moment in this exhilarating season. As March Madness approaches, all eyes will be on St. John’s to see if they can continue their winning streak and make a deep run in the tournament.
