Changing Dynamics in the St. John’s-Connecticut Rivalry

The rivalry between St. John’s and Connecticut took a significant turn last winter.

At that point, the Huskies weren’t leading the Big East. During their matchups, the support from Connecticut fans noticeably diminished at the Garden.

Most notably, under Rick Pitino’s leadership, the Johnnies managed to win two key regular-season games, including a memorable victory in Storrs, Conn., and another decisive match at MSG. This win marked their first complete Big East regular-season championship since 1985.

As both teams gear up for this season, they’re opening their doors to new transfers.

Regarded as potential contenders for the Final Four, their next meetings are set for February 6th and February 25th.

“Playing against St. John’s is tough, but I wouldn’t call it disrespectful,” Connecticut coach Dan Hurley remarked during the Big East media day, just two weeks ahead of the regular season. He acknowledged the prestige of Pitino but also recognized the spirited rivalry that has developed between the teams.

“What I see happening at St. John’s is interesting. Your real rivals are the teams that threaten your chances at championships,” he explained, touching on the nature of competition in sports.

In the Associated Press preseason rankings, UConn stood at No. 4, while St. John’s followed closely at No. 5.

Interestingly, in the Big East poll, the Johnnies garnered more support, claiming seven out of eleven first-place votes.

These two coaches share a unique position in the league, both being national champions. With their strong personalities and competitive spirit, there’s no sign of a friendship blooming anytime soon.

Kevin Willard, Villanova’s new coach and a former assistant to Pitino, humorously commented, “I think they’re both crazy,” and meant it affectionately.

On Tuesday, both Pitino and Hurley seemed unfazed by the rankings. Hurley mentioned that his assistant, Luke Murray, filled out the ballot for their team. When asked if he needed to remind his players about the significance of being ranked No. 1, Pitino jokingly replied, “What they’ll prove by the end of practice is that no one really thinks they’re No. 1.”

Pitino expressed another perspective on the Big East landscape, noting that many teams, like Creighton, Marquette, Villanova, Providence, and Georgetown, are just as vital to the conference’s identity. However, this view isn’t shared by most analysts and conference coaches.

Both the Huskies and Johnnies earned all eleven first-place votes, and among the 19 players selected for three All-League teams, many were from these two schools. St. John’s standout Zubie Ejiofor even took home the preseason player of the year accolade, while fellow Husky Braylon Mullins was named the preseason rookie guard of the year.

“It’s exciting for college basketball to have a rivalry with programs ranked so highly,” Hurley remarked. He noted that Pitino’s team seems to be in a similar position this year, making their upcoming matches something to look forward to. “This is great for the Big East. It’s sure to be a thrilling encounter,” he added.