The Big East will be in full swing as the St. John’s Red Storm prepare to face off against the Providence Friars at Madison Square Garden on January 3. This matchup not only has significant implications for the conference standings but also features compelling storylines that connect both teams.
St. John’s head coach Rick Pitino brings a historical connection to the event, having coached at Providence in the 1980s. Additionally, Bryce Hopkins, a standout player for the Red Storm, has a notable history with the Friars, having spent three seasons with them before transferring to St. John’s this past summer. Their shared experiences add a layer of intensity and intrigue to this encounter.
Analysts forecast a high-scoring game, with a predicted total set over 168.5 points, driven by the fast-paced play styles of both squads. St. John’s excels in transition scoring, averaging 1.3 points per possession and dominating on the boards, while the Providence defense has struggled to contain opponent scoring in transition, allowing 1.20 points per possession.
This game could evolve into a thrilling battle of offensive prowess, pitting standout players like Providence’s Jaylin Sellers and Jason Edwards against St. John’s Zuby Ejiofor and Bryce Hopkins. If both teams push the pace and capitalize on each other’s vulnerabilities—particularly during fast breaks and second-chance opportunities—fans can expect an elevated scoreline.
Betting trends indicate St. John’s has been a strong performer lately, hitting the moneyline in 29 of their last 35 games. The odds currently favor St. John’s at -10.5, while the Friars are positioned at +10.5.
As fans gear up for this exciting matchup, the game promises to deliver high-energy basketball, previously established rivalries, and a chance for both teams to strengthen their positions within the Big East Conference. With key players like Ejiofor and Hopkins set to shine, Saturday’s game at Madison Square Garden is eagerly anticipated by supporters and analysts alike.