St. John's Red Storm Men's Basketball

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is RJ Lewis leaving St. John's?

RJ Lewis is leaving St. John's primarily in search of greater playing opportunities and a more significant role on the court. After transferring to St. John's Red Storm from UMass, Lewis found limited minutes and a crowded roster in the 2023-24 season under head coach Rick Pitino. With the Red Storm heavily recruiting and adding experienced players through the transfer portal, Lewis's path to consistent playing time became more challenging. Additionally, the evolving team dynamics and strategic direction may not have aligned with his personal development goals. Entering the NCAA transfer portal allows RJ Lewis to explore options at programs where he can maximize his skills and showcase his talent more prominently. This move is common among college basketball athletes who seek to optimize their collegiate careers and position themselves better for professional opportunities. For fans and recruiters watching the transfer market, Lewis's decision reflects both the competitive nature of Division I basketball and the increasing mobility of student-athletes in pursuit of the best fit.

Which NBA player went to St. John's University?

One of the most notable NBA players who attended St. John's University is Chris Mullin. Mullin is a legendary figure in both college and professional basketball, renowned for his sharpshooting and basketball IQ. Playing at St. John's from 1981 to 1985, he led the Red Storm to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and was named a three-time Big East Player of the Year. Mullin's stellar college career earned him induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. After his time at St. John's, he was selected seventh overall by the Golden State Warriors in the 1985 NBA Draft. Over a 16-year NBA career, Mullin became a five-time All-Star and was a key member of the 1992 U.S. Olympic "Dream Team." His lasting legacy at St. John's University continues to inspire new generations of Red Storm athletes and fans, making him the most prominent NBA alumni from the program.

What is the lowest score in college basketball history?

The lowest score in college basketball history occurred on January 18, 1973, when Tennessee Tech scored just 6 points against the University of Kentucky, who won the game 11-6. This historic game is often cited in NCAA Division I men's basketball as a testament to the defensive intensity and slow-paced style that was sometimes prevalent in earlier eras. The matchup was played before the introduction of the shot clock and three-point line, allowing teams to hold the ball for extended periods and leading to extremely low-scoring affairs. The 11-6 result stands as a record for the fewest combined points in a Division I men's basketball game. Changes in college basketball rules, such as the implementation of the shot clock in 1985, have since ensured higher-scoring and more dynamic contests, making such a low score highly unlikely in the modern era. This game remains a notable part of NCAA basketball history and trivia.

What was St. John's nickname before Red Storm?

Before adopting the nickname "Red Storm" in 1994, St. John's athletic teams were known as the "Redmen." The Redmen nickname had been associated with St. John's University athletics since the early 20th century, originally referencing the red uniforms worn by the teams. Over the years, however, the term became increasingly controversial due to its perceived insensitivity toward Native American communities. As social awareness grew, St. John's University made the decision to rebrand to a more inclusive and modern identity. In June 1994, the school officially changed its nickname to the "Red Storm," a name that maintains a connection to the school's traditional colors while promoting a dynamic and unifying image for the university's sports teams. The transition marked a significant moment in the history of St. John's athletics and reflects broader cultural changes in sports branding.

Why is St. John's ranked so high?

St. John's is ranked highly in college basketball rankings due to a combination of strong coaching, high-level recruiting, and impressive on-court performance. Under legendary coaches like Rick Pitino, the Red Storm have revitalized their program with a blend of experienced transfers and talented freshmen, elevating the team's competitiveness in the Big East Conference. The roster is bolstered by players with proven track records and the ability to make immediate impacts, resulting in notable wins against ranked opponents and consistent performances throughout the season. Additionally, St. John's benefits from a rich basketball tradition, a passionate fan base, and a prime location in New York City, which helps attract top-tier talent. Their high national ranking reflects both their current success and the program's long-term commitment to building a culture of excellence. For fans and ticket seekers, this resurgence makes St. John's Red Storm games a must-watch event in the college basketball landscape.