St. John’s Storms Back To Defeat Villanova 71-65

St. John’s stormed back from a 19 point deficit to defeat Villanova 71-65.

Tip Off St. Johns vs. Villanova 2/17/2019

St. John’s Red Storm got off to an awful start as they trailed the Villanova Wildcats by 19 points in the first half. Despite trailing in the game for 32 minutes and 26 seconds, St. John’s had a comeback for the ages and outscored Villanova 45-28 in the second half. St. John’s took the lead for good late in the game and went on to win 71-65. St. John’s is now 19-7 on the season.

Surprisingly, Shamorie Ponds had an off night. In 35:28 minutes, Ponds only shot 2-14 from the field and was 0-4 on three pointers. However, he was 7-8 from the free throw line and helped closeout the game. LJ Figueroa led the way for the Red Storm with 22 points in 38:05 minutes and 12 rebounds. Mustapha Heron also added 19 points in 35:32 minutes. Both Figueroa and Heron each made 7 free throws and Figueroa also had four steals. Justin Simon also added 13 points, three of which came on a ridiculous buzzer beater to end the first half.

https://twitter.com/StJohnsBBall/status/1097321854497443840

Marvin Clark II buries a 3

Shamorie Ponds Receives Pass

After the game, Head Coach Chris Mullin, Mustapha Heron and LJ Figueroa said they are not looking forward to the NCAA Tournament and are focused on the rest of the regular season and Big East Tournament for now.

Chris Mullin Mustapha Heron LF Figueroa Postgame 2/17/2019

Villanova Head Coach Jay Wright says he believes St. John’s is an NCAA Tournament team.

Jay Wright Postgame 2/17/19

MSG After St. John’s Victory 2/17/19

MSG Lit Up For St. John’s