St. John’s Red Storm 2024-25 Preview & Big East Basketball Predictions

It’s not a typical season for St. John’s head coach Rick Pitino to finish his year at a conference tournament rather than the Big Dance. It marked the first time since 2006, with 2016’s tournament ban at Louisville excluded, where a Pitino-led team didn’t reach the NCAA Tournament.

Big East Previews: Butler | DePaul | Georgetown | Villanova

St. John’s Red Storm Odds

“We had a very successful year," said Pitino. “But sometimes, it doesn’t fall your way. They took five Mountain West teams over Big East teams."

He quickly attacked the portal and got new pieces in Jamaica for the 2024-25 season to be ready to go again in the vaunted Big East. The class is headlined by Kadary Richmond, a rare intraconference transfer from Seton Hall, who will be a contender for Big East and potentially National Player of the Year. He is a smooth three-level scorer who can go for 30 whenever desired. Richmond believes his experience in the Big East with Seton Hall will serve him well.

“I’m looking forward to getting out there in conference play," said Richmond. “The physicality amps up. Everything amps up. The scouting is a lot more precise. I can’t wait for Big East play."

St. John’s Red Storm Top Additions

Deivon Smith is another multitalented guard out of the backcourt. He is a flat-out athlete with incredible vision. He can flirt with a triple-double on any given night and has provided the team with a veteran, efficient playmaker from day one. Richmond mentioned how excited he is to play alongside his new teammate.

“We both do a lot of things out there.," said Richmond. “When one needs to break off the ball, or one is getting overwhelmed with having the ball, then we can switch it off. I feel like it’s a good thing for both of us."

Pitino is aware of how competitive the conference will be this season, and he’s preparing his players for the heightened level of competition.

“The wars are going to be much greater this year than last year," said Pitino. We firmly believe that the Johnnies have the soldiers to win more Big East battles in 2025.

St. John’s Red Storm Prediction

Second Place in the Big East | NCAA Tournament