CINCINNATI — Joeson Sanon Embraces the Moment
Joeson Sanon isn’t one to shy away from pressure. In fact, the sophomore seems to thrive in it.
Even though he’s been coming off the bench for the last five games and has faced challenges with his shooting, the Arizona State transfer has played a pivotal role in St. John’s recent victories.
In last Saturday’s dominant win against Villanova, the team nailed two crucial 3-pointers during a critical phase, staving off a strong rally from the Wildcats. Then, in Tuesday’s impressive comeback against Seton Hall at the Garden, Sanon was instrumental in the final ten minutes, making significant contributions on both offense and defense.
“I enjoy tight situations towards the end of the game. I’m always ready,” Sanon stated. “I approach each shot with confidence, believing in my abilities. I just go with the flow. Honestly, I know that the next shot might miss; that’s how I think.”
Sanon had been a starter for much of the season, until St. John’s current five-game winning streak began. He took Dillon Mitchell’s place in the starting lineup but didn’t play in the second half during the recent victory over Creighton, as coach Rick Pitino adapted to a surge from Lefteris Liotopoulos.
“Honestly, I don’t mind coming off the bench. It’s not a big deal,” Sanon remarked. “I’m just focused on whatever helps the team win.”
Coach Pitino has confidence in Sanon, describing him as the most talented player on the team. Pitino advised him to enhance his defensive efforts, and it seems Sanon took this to heart, becoming a team-best plus-13 in 16 minutes against Seton Hall.
“I’ve been more assertive on defense, crashing the boards, and blocking shots—just focusing on those little things,” said the 6-foot-5 wing.
A winter storm is set to impact the East Coast, prompting a change in schedule for Saturday’s game; it has been moved from 2:30 p.m. ET to 1:30 p.m. ET. Fans can catch the game in full on TruTV, with additional coverage on TNT after the Providence-Georgetown matchup wraps up at 12:30 p.m.
