St. John’s Basketball: A Season of Resurgence Led by Bryce Hopkins

The St. John’s Red Storm’s journey this season took a pivotal turn following a disappointing loss to Providence on January 3. Since then, the team has rebounded spectacularly, stringing together six consecutive victories. One player at the forefront of this transformative phase is senior forward Bryce Hopkins.

The Turning Point Against Providence

Reflecting on the turning point of their season, Bryce Hopkins stated, “That game didn’t sit right with me at all. I feel like after that, a switch definitely turned.” As the Johnnies prepared for their matchup against Butler, Hopkins emphasized the emotional weight of that game, noting how it motivated him to play more freely and with less hesitation.

An Impressive Comeback Performance

Hopkins has seen a remarkable resurgence since facing Providence. In the succeeding six games, he has emerged as a leader, posting an impressive plus-minus of +75. His stats include:

• 15.3 points per game on 47.8% shooting
• 6.3 rebounds
• 2.1 assists

One of his standout moments came against Xavier, where he scored 14 points in the second half, contributing to the team’s comeback. This performance highlights his knack for elevating his play when the stakes are highest.

The Clutch Factor

Earlier in the season, St. John’s struggled to close out close games, holding leads in all five of their losses. However, with newfound confidence, they have managed to secure three consecutive wins by narrow margins. Hopkins believes he embodies the "clutch gene," stating, “I just try to stay calm in those times. … You have to rely on your work, and the rest of it will handle itself.” His determination and calm persona in pressure situations make him a crucial asset for the team.

A New Defensive Strategy

Another factor contributing to St. John’s recent success is the strategic lineup change implemented by Coach Rick Pitino. By replacing Joson Sanon with Dillon Mitchell in the starting five, the team has benefitted immensely. Mitchell’s defensive capabilities and playmaking skills have significantly bolstered the team’s overall performance.

Partnership with Dillon Mitchell

Hopkins praised Mitchell’s impact, noting, “Dillon is a great player. We feed off each other well.” This collaborative chemistry is vital for maximizing their offensive and defensive capabilities. With Mitchell facilitating plays, Hopkins has been able to find more open opportunities, allowing for better spacing and higher scoring potential.

Overcoming Injury Challenges

It’s important to acknowledge the journey that led to Hopkins’ standout performances. This is his first full season after recovering from an ACL injury that sidelined him for most of the 2022-23 season. He stated, “I feel like I have settled in a little bit, and I am getting back to that player I was a while ago.”

What’s Next for St. John’s?

With their confidence soaring, the Red Storm look poised to continue their winning streak as they tackle upcoming challenges. The combination of Hopkins’ leadership, Mitchell’s dynamic play, and a newfound resilience in close games sets the stage for an exhilarating run in the season ahead.

For more on St. John’s basketball and their pursuit of greatness, check out NCAA Basketball and follow the team’s progress as they aim for victory in every game.