St. John’s basketball: Key questions for the 2024-25 season

St. John’s basketball: Key questions for the 2024-25 season
The upcoming 2024-25 season presents a pivotal moment for St. John’s basketball, as the team navigates significant roster changes and strategic adjustments. With the departure of key players, the Red Storm must adapt quickly to maintain competitiveness in a challenging landscape.

Adjusting to new roles

Kadary Richmond and Deivon Smith, both accustomed to being primary ball handlers, face a new reality this season. Richmond has expressed a positive outlook on the shift, indicating that it will alleviate some of his playmaking duties, which were particularly demanding during his time at Seton Hall. This adjustment is crucial, as it allows him to focus on scoring and creating opportunities without the burden of constant ball distribution.

Meanwhile, Smith’s role as the sixth man is a strategic move designed to enhance the team’s offensive capabilities. By bringing him off the bench, St. John’s can start games with a stronger shooting presence, while also injecting energy and pace into the game when he enters. This dual approach could prove vital in establishing early leads and maintaining momentum throughout matches.

Finding consistent scoring options

Last season, St. John’s relied heavily on its top shooters, including Daniss Jenkins and Jordan Dingle, who have since moved on. The current roster must now step up to fill this void. RJ Luis, who has revamped his shooting technique, is expected to play a significant role in improving the team’s three-point shooting, which was a weak point last year. His ability to convert from beyond the arc will be essential for stretching defenses and creating driving lanes for Richmond and Smith.

Additionally, sophomores Simeon Wilcher and Brady Dunlap, along with North Texas transfer Aaron Scott, will be crucial in providing consistent scoring. Scott’s previous success, hitting 37 percent from three-point range, offers hope that he can contribute significantly to the team’s offensive arsenal.

Preparing for a tough schedule

Head coach Rick Pitino has emphasized the importance of starting strong, which is reflected in the team’s challenging non-conference schedule. With matchups against ranked opponents like Baylor and Kansas State, along with a potential clash against Tennessee, the Red Storm must be ready to compete at a high level from the outset. Last season’s early losses to teams like Michigan and Dayton set a negative tone that St. John’s struggled to overcome.

Returning players Zuby Ejiofor, RJ Luis, Wilcher, and Dunlap are expected to play pivotal roles in this new campaign. The health of Luis, following offseason surgeries, is particularly encouraging, as he is seen as a key player capable of making a significant impact. The combination of returning talent and new transfers will be critical for St. John’s as they aim for a breakthrough season.

Looking ahead

Historically, Rick Pitino’s second seasons with teams have yielded substantial improvements. From Final Four appearances to increased win totals, his track record suggests that St. John’s could be on the verge of a successful turnaround. The team must harness the potential of its returning players while integrating new talent effectively to achieve its goals this season.