The wait is over! St. John's University is buzzing with excitement as the highly anticipated college basketball season kicks off. But hold on, the games haven't even started yet! So, what's all the hype about?
Well, the AP preseason poll is set to drop on Monday, and St. John's is expected to make a grand entrance into the top 10. This is a big deal because it's been a whopping 33 years since the Red Storm started a season with such a high ranking. Yes, you read that right, over three decades! And this time, they're not just hoping to make a splash but to sustain it throughout the season.
With Hall of Fame coach Rick Pitino at the helm for his third season, the team is generating a buzz like never before. Pitino himself seems confident yet cautious, stating that the rankings don't matter as much as the upcoming games against Michigan and Alabama will reveal the team's true potential. But here's where it gets controversial—is it really wise to put so much emphasis on preseason rankings?
The Red Storm has bolstered its roster with some impressive transfers, including Ian Jackson from North Carolina, Oziyah Sellers from Stanford, Bryce Hopkins from Providence, and Joson Sanon from Arizona State. These additions have addressed the team's previous weakness in shooting, making them a force to be reckoned with. Last season, St. John's made waves by cracking the AP rankings in the third week and eventually reaching as high as No. 5 before the NCAA Tournament.
But the real excitement lies in the potential for this season. With a challenging schedule that includes powerhouses like Alabama, Kentucky, and Iowa State, St. John's could either soar to the top or face a steep fall. And that's what makes this journey so thrilling!
So, as we eagerly await the AP poll and the season's tip-off, one question lingers: Can St. John's live up to the hype and maintain its ranking all season long? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
