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Understanding the matchup
The Big East Tournament is heating up, and all eyes are on the upcoming semifinal clash between St. John’s and Marquette. This matchup promises to be a thrilling encounter, especially with Marquette’s recent performance. After overcoming a 14-point deficit against Xavier, the Golden Eagles are riding high on momentum.
Their star player, Kam Jones, has been a standout this season, showcasing his skills as one of the premier guards in the nation.
Key players to watch
Kam Jones, a senior guard, has been pivotal for Marquette. He was a National Player of the Year candidate earlier in the season, and his recent performances have solidified his status as a top player.
In the last game against St. John’s, he exploded for 32 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists, proving he can take over a game. With an average of 28 points in the quarterfinals, slowing down this 6-foot-5 southpaw will be a significant challenge for St.
John’s defense.
Defensive strategies and weaknesses
Marquette’s defensive prowess is evident in their impressive turnover margin, ranking third in the nation at plus-5.8. They average 9.1 steals per game, led by the elite on-ball defender Stevie Mitchell.
Their ability to pressure the ball and convert turnovers into fast-break opportunities makes them a formidable opponent. However, St. John’s has its own strengths, particularly in their offensive capabilities. Yet, they face a critical weakness: their defense in the paint.
Lacking a true rim protector, they struggle with defensive rebounding, ranking second to last in the conference in this category.
Recent performances and implications
In their last encounter, St. John’s forward Zuby Ejiofor made a significant impact, scoring 17 points and grabbing 12 rebounds, including the game-winning shot at the overtime buzzer.
His performance will be crucial as St. John’s looks to exploit Marquette’s defensive vulnerabilities. As both teams prepare for this high-stakes game, fans can expect a battle of wills, strategies, and standout performances that could determine who advances to the finals.
