Rick Pitino's strategic moves are already paying off for St. John's, with the coach strategically placing Dillon Mitchell in the starting lineup. This decision comes as no surprise, given Pitino's reputation as a master motivator. Last season, he transformed a St. John's team with significant shooting flaws into a force to be reckoned with, securing the Big East Tournament title and a 31-5 record. The current St. John's team, bolstered by top-rated transfers according to 247sports.com, is poised for even greater success, entering the season ranked No. 5 nationally and viewed as a strong Final Four contender. However, Pitino remains a persuasive force, pushing his players to reach new heights.
At the team's on-campus media day, Pitino caused a stir by announcing that Dillon Mitchell would replace Bryce Hopkins in the starting lineup, joining Zuby Ejiofor, Osiyah Sellers, Ian Jackson, and Joson Sanon. This move is intriguing, given that Hopkins, a 6-7 forward, was expected to start after transferring from Providence, where he was an all-Big East first-teamer in 2022-23. Pitino's explanation for the change is intriguing: he's seeking a 'Mamba' mentality, a passionate and great player, from Hopkins, who has been 'good' and 'solid' throughout the summer. This subtle shift in motivation could be the key to unlocking Hopkins' full potential.
The pressure is on for the team, as it's their last year together, and they aim for a Final Four or national championship. Ejiofor and Hopkins both emphasize the importance of staying focused and utilizing their collective talent and depth. However, Pitino's focus is on the process, not just the outcome. He believes that being a Final Four contender requires a specific approach to defense and offense, and he's guiding his team towards that goal.
The team's first test will be against Towson, followed by a more significant challenge against No. 7 Michigan in an exhibition game. Pitino's strategy is to accelerate team development through early regular-season games, ensuring they're progressing in the right direction. Additionally, the return of Kelvin Odih from a pectoral injury adds another layer of depth to the team, providing a boost to their rotation.
As the season unfolds, St. John's faces a series of nationally ranked opponents, with Pitino's leadership and strategic moves setting the stage for a memorable run.
