St. John's University has touted its ability to overcome adversity.
Being at your best with your back against the wall.
On Saturday night, it appeared again.
Led by De'Vion Smith, who was primarily a second-half observer due to a left shoulder injury, St. John's found a way out.
RJ Lewis was the best player on the floor, not Eric Dixon, the nation's leading scorer, to keep Villanova alive until the end.
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Lewis scored 23 of St. John's career-high 30 points after halftime, Kadary Richmond rallied late and the Johnnies defeated hotly contested Villanova 80-68 at the Rocking Garden for the ninth time in 10 games. won the victory.
The Johnnies (14-3, 5-1) held Dixon to 18 points on 6-of-19 shooting and pounded Villanova against the glass, making it 44-28.
He also made 29 of 39 free throws to close out the game late and give the Wildcats their third straight victory.
Lewis also had 10 rebounds, and Richmond had nine points, five assists and four rebounds.
Aaron Scott had 12 points and Zuby Ejiofor had 11 points and nine rebounds.
The Johnnies ended the game on a high note, outscoring Villanova 16-5 in the final 2 minutes, 53 seconds.
