Overview
- RJ Luis became the first St. John’s player in 39 years to win Big East Player of the Year, following a standout season averaging 18.1 points and 7.1 rebounds per game.
- Luis credited his teammates and coach Rick Pitino for his development after recovering from surgeries to address shin splints and returning as a more dynamic player.
- Rick Pitino was named Big East Coach of the Year after leading St. John’s to an 18-2 conference record and its first outright regular season title since 1985.
- St. John’s enters the Big East Tournament as the top seed and a strong favorite to win its first conference tournament title since 2000.
- The team’s success this season includes an undefeated record at Madison Square Garden, where they have drawn large crowds and built significant momentum.