Boo.
Insult.
Poison.
Bryce Hopkins is aware of what awaits him on Saturday when he heads back to Amica Mutual Pavilion. He was present two years ago when Providence fans showed hostility towards former coach Ed Cooley. It seems likely he’ll face a similar reaction.
“It’s definitely going to be something similar,” the St. John’s forward remarked with a hint of a smile on Thursday.
He added, “The decision I made to come here was mine to make. I have to accept it; that’s just part of it.”
Hopkins got a taste of the crowd’s reaction five weeks ago. During a game at the Garden against the 17th-ranked Johnnys, his team, the Flyers, faced boos throughout, suffering their only conference loss to St. John’s.
This Saturday’s atmosphere might be even more intense.
“Everyone has to protect themselves,” his teammate Zuby Ejiofor noted. “It’s always tough to play and win there. The key is to get him involved early, score some points, and try to block out the crowd and their noise.”
Ironically, that loss was a pivotal moment for Hopkins and St. John’s (19-5, 12-1). Since then, he hasn’t lost a game and is on a 10-game winning streak.
Hopkins has become more assertive on the court and has developed into a solid defensive player since that defeat. He’s played a crucial role in helping the Johnnys meet their high preseason expectations.
In the first game against Providence, he struggled, managing only eight points on 3-of-13 shooting. He’s mentioned that his performance didn’t reflect his abilities, but he’s been adjusting accordingly.
That loss was notable as he was outplayed by Providence freshman Jamier Jones. Jones stirred some controversy afterward, suggesting he could have done even better if Hopkins hadn’t transferred.
When asked about that comment on Thursday, Hopkins took a gracious approach.
“He’s a great player, playing well right now. I respect him,” he said. “He’s a competitor, as am I. He has to think that way; it’s his opinion, and I have mine. That’s how it is.”
During his recent performances, Hopkins has averaged 14.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 1.1 steals.
He’s also kept his mistakes minimal, with only four turnovers. More than just numbers, he’s consistently stepped up when it counted and shined in crucial moments during several games.
In Monday’s win over Xavier, a less-than-stellar game overall, he made key contributions, grabbing two vital offensive rebounds that set up a game-tying layup late in the match.
Coach Rick Pitino remarked, “When the game was on the line, Bryce Hopkins really won the game.”
Last year, St. John’s had a similar challenge when Kaderly Richmond faced Seton Hall after leaving, but he wasn’t at his best then. On the other hand, Hopkins seems to be finding his rhythm already.
“It’s going to leave a mark,” Hopkins admitted, though he’s not approaching the game with the intent to prove something. “I plan to let my teammates excel, focus on taking the open shots, and just play solid basketball. I’m proud of that mindset.”
“I’m not trying to make this about me. We’re all in this together, aiming for one goal: winning the Big East Championship.”
