Courtside Magazine 2019-20

TORCH PHOTO/NICK BELLO TORCH DESIGN/SPENCER CLINTON

INSIDE THE ISSUE It Takes Two

.................................................3

Twin sisters bring a telepathic quality to basketball

Sweden to Queens

........................10

Cecilia Holmberg travels overseas for the Red Storm

Aiming for Victory

..........................16

Leilani Correa joins the Women’s team

Fourth and Final

.......................18

See what’s in store for Justin Cole’s final season

It’s Up to You, New York

..........24

Can Mike Anderson make it in NYC?

The New York Groove

COURTSIDE

THE ANNUAL TORCH BASKETBALL MAGAZINE

EDITORIAL BOARD XCVII Morgan C. Mullings Editor-in-Chief

Priyanka Gera Culture Editor

Amanda Negretti Managing Editor

Dayra Santana Features Editor

Spencer Clinton Creative Director

Patrick Loftus Chief Copy Editor

Jenna Woo Design Editor

Amber Borden Social Media Manager

Nick Bello Sports Editor

Shaolin Barid Human Resources

Andreina Rodriguez News Editor

Manager

Cover design by: Jenna Woo

...........................34

The third-year is ready for upperclassman responsibility

Changing Lanes

.........................36

Thomas O’Connell goes from Lacrosse to Basketball

TORCHONLINE.COM

Jim Baumbach Adviser

Written by: Sydney Denham, Sean Okula, Brendan Murray, Thomas Cavanagh, J.P. Devetori, Nick McCreven, Alicia Venter Designed by: Jenna Woo

Qadashah Hoppie

TORCH PHOTO/ SPENCER CLINTON

Destinee Scott Opinion Editor

................28

Julian Champagnie joins the Men’s team from Brooklyn

St. John’s Men’s Basketball Schedule 2019-2020 EXHIBITION 10/30/19 Queens College 11/06/19 11/09/19 11/12/19 11/16/19 11/20/19

Queens, N.Y (Carnesecca Arena)

Mercer Queens, N.Y. (Carnesecca Arena) Central Connecticut State Queens, N.Y. (Carnesecca Arena) New Hampshire Queens, N.Y. (Carnesecca Arena) Vermont Queens, N.Y. (Carnesecca Arena) Columbia Queens, N.Y. (Carnesecca Arena)

7:00 PM 6:30 PM 4:00 PM 7:00 PM 4:00 PM 7:00 PM

BASKETBALL HALL OF FAME TIP-OFF TOURNAMENT 11/23/19 Arizona State 11/24/19 Virginia/UMass.

Uncasville, Conn. (Mohegan Sun Arena) 2:30 PM Uncasville, Conn. (Mohegan Sun Arena) 1\1:30PM

11/30/19 Wagner 12/03/19 Saint Peter’s 12/07/19 West Virginia 12/07/19 Brown 12/18/19 Albany 12/21/19 Arizona 12/31/19 Butler 01/05/19 Xavier 01/08/19 Georgetown 01/11/20 DePaul 01/15/20 Providence 01/18/20 Seton Hall 01/21/19 Marquette 01/25/19 DePaul 01/28/20 Villanova 02/02/20 Georgetown 02/08/20 Creighton 02/12/20 Providence 02/12/20 Xavier 02/23/20 Seton Hall 02/26/20 Villanova 03/01/20 Creighton 03/04/20 Butler 03/07/20 Marquette

Queens, N.Y.(Carnesecca Arena) 12:00 PM Queens, N.Y. (Carnesecca) 6:30 PM New York, N.Y. (Madison Square Garden)12:00PM Queens, N.Y. (Carnesecca Arena) 7:00 PM Queens, N.Y (Carnesecca Arena) 8:30 PM San Francisco, Cali. (Chase Center) 10:00 PM Queens,N.Y(Carnesecca Arena) 7:30 PM Cincinnati, Ohio (Cintas Center) 4:30 PM Washington, D.C (Capital One Arena) 6:30 PM New York, N.Y (Madison Square Garden)12:00 PM Providence, R.I (Dunkin’ Donuts Center) 8:30PM New York, N.Y. Madison Square Garden)12:00 PM Milwaukee, WIS. (Fiserv Forum) 9:00 PM Chicago, ILL. (Wintrust Arena) 2:00 PM New York, N.Y (Madison Square Garden) 6:30 PM New York, N.Y (Madison Square Garden) 1:00PM Omaha, Neb. (Chi Health Center Omaha) 6:00 PM Queens, N.Y, (Carnesecca Arena) 8:30 PM New York, N.Y. (Madison Square Garden) 6:30 PM Newark, N.J (Prudential Center) 2:00 PM Villanova, PA. (Finneran Pavilion) 6:30PM Queens, N.Y. (Carnesecca Arena) 12:00PM Indianapolis, IND. (Hinkle Fieldhouse) 7:00PM New York, N.Y. (Madison Square Garden)12:00PM

torchonline.com

COURTSIDE | 3

IT TAKES TWO – THE NOLAN TWINS SEAN OKULA Staff Writer

Seated next to each other at St. John’s media day, Emma and Sophie Nolan were discernible if only with a peek at their name cards. Distinctive in their styles of play, that confusion rarely stretches onto the court.

Sometimes, though, their connection gives them a telepathic edge. Can their consciousnesses meet to anticipate each others’ next move to the hoop?

“Yes,” they answer in unison.

This might be a case study in waiting.

Having conquered the Hoosier state with unique dyadic flare, the Nolan twins decided to take their act out east. They start fresh at St. John’s displaced but, predictably, together.

Freshmen face a learning curve, whether it be on the court or simply acclimating themselves to an unfamiliar lifestyle. Most don’t have their sister, or “best friend” as put by Emma, to stand by their side through early college life.

“It makes a huge difference,” Sophie tells the Torch.

“It’s [helped] a lot, just talking through it with her.”

“At the end of the day, we go in each other’s rooms and hang out,” Emma added. “Having someone that you can vent to at the end of the day is really helpful.

Our mom’s not here to hear about our day, so it’s nice to have someone I’ve been raised with my entire life to lean on.”

Their high school days through, the twins laid waste to the Northwest Indiana basketball record books. Emma holds the Marquette Catholic High School records for points, rebounds, steals, and blocks. Sophie is second in those four, plus three-pointers made. She ranks third in assists.

Most items on their résumés are shared. Two-time state champions and co-players of the year according to four different local newspapers, the spotlight was always split in two. Neither seemed to mind much.

“We basically shared everything our entire life, so I don’t really mind sharing accolades with her,” Emma says. “We both contributed a lot to our high school team, so I feel like we both earned them together.”

“We always put in the same amount of effort,” Sophie ads.

When the time came to decide on college, there was a consensus. Never had they played on different teams.

If there was a chance that would change after high

school, it was a small one.

“It was a discussion,” Sophie says. “When the recruiting process started we decided we wanted to go together, we wanted to play in the Big East.”

“East,” as fans know, is a bit of a misnomer. Half of the schools in the conference call something closer to the midwest home. They share that in common with the Nolans, which factored into their decision.

“We always knew if we came here we’d still get to [play] near our home so our family and friends could come see us,” Emma says.

So together they went, ready to take New York in tandem. But they aren’t without their moments of sibling rivalry. The two tallest on their team at Marquette Catholic, they were often pitted against each other in the post during practice.

Then there are the one-on-ones. Sharing most of the acclaim in season, the Nolans don’t use the offseason backyard sessions as a chance to settle any bragging rights. The risk for a soured relationship runs too high.

“We don’t keep score so we don’t fight,” Emma says.

Though tensions may increase, they appreciate the value of always having a sister in their corner. That can mean tough love on the court, bred from high standards.

“I think we’re harder on each other because we expect more of each other,” Emma says. “I know everything that she’s capable of doing and when she doesn’t show up I know that she’s just being lazy or not mentally there.”

“We get along most of the time,” she adds.

While their connection runs deep, their skill sets have diverged. Emma fashions herself as more of a post player, fighting down low for rebounds and cleaning up missed shots. Sophie works as more of a stretch guard, but says she has no problem playing big.

“I think I’m very versatile,” she says. “I can be down low and be aggressive if my coach needs me. But I can also be on the three-point line.”

Unsurprisingly, their styles are complementary. Coach Joe Tartamella noticed as much in summer workouts and hides no plans to put the twins in a position to play off each other.

“I think they have some good parallels in their game,” he says. “They’re great communicators on the floor.”

“I think we play very well together,” Sophie adds. “I know Emma’s better playing high-low. I know she can also score on the three-point line. So, I know where to pass her the ball and when not to pass her the ball.”

4 | COURTSIDE

torchonline.com

Figueroa’s Journey Continues As He Enters Junior Season NICK BELLO Sports Editor L.J. Figueroa appeared from the darkness of a curtain covered entrance in Carnesecca Arena as he was introduced to the near-capacity crowd at the annual Tip-Off celebration in 2018. The 6-6 forward who ended up in Queens by way of Odessa Community College, had not yet become a familiar face in the realm of St. John’s

“

IT WAS DEFINITELY HARD GROWING UP IN LAWRENCE, MY CITY IS NOT REALLY KNOWN FOR TOO MANY GOOD THINGS, IT DEFINITELY WAS A CHALLENGE. - L.J. Figueroa

Men’s Basketball. As the unfamiliar freshman danced with his new teammates at mid court while grasping the Dominican Republic flag, fans welcomed him, unknowing of the impact he would have on a season that saw the Red Storm march their way to the First Four round of the NCAA Tournament.

Figueroa grew up in Lawrence, Massachusetts, a city of a little under 76,000 people located approximately 30 miles north of Boston on the banks of the Merrimack River. What was once a former mill city in the early 20th century, Lawrence is a shell of its former self. A 2012 New York Times Article, which chronicled the troubles that the people of Lawrence faced said, “There is a litany of reasons one might avoid this city: double-digit unemployment, high crime rates, struggling public schools and, at the top, enduring suspicions of chronic mismanagement.”

When Figueroa is asked to describe his childhood in Lawrence, he hesitates for a second, searching for a way

to describe the place he grew up, before honestly describing what it was like.

“Growing up in Lawrence you know there’s a lot of kids that don’t see too much out of Lawrence, they’ve never been out of Lawrence,” Figueroa said. “It was definitely hard growing up in Lawrence, my city is not really known for too many good things, it definitely was a challenge.”

Figueroa was one of the lucky ones to make it out of Lawrence. In his sophomore year of high school, he took his talents to West Oaks Academy in Orlando, Florida.

Figueroa’s move to Florida helped not only to get him out of Lawrence, but also helped him gain national attention. By his senior year, Figueroa was a four-star recruit and had multiple offers from schools like Louisville University, Louisiana State University and Texas Tech just to name a few.

In the fall of his senior year, Figueroa committed to New Mexico State. However, in May Figueroa would de-commit after New Mexico State’s head coach Marvin Menzies left for the University of Las Vegas Nevada. As a result, Figueroa de-commited and enrolled at Odessa Community College in Odessa, Texas, a city completely different than the one in which Figueroa grew up in.

“Going to community college showed me a lot, especially going to Odessa, the place was a lot different from Massachusetts,” Figueroa said. Odessa and Lawrence are two polar opposites, as one can assume. Odessa is a city of about 116,000 people and is known for cowboy’s and oil rigs, which would be a culture shock for anyone from the northeast. Despite the major cultural differences between Odessa and Lawrence, Figueroa’s decision to play a season in Odessa was one in which he doesn’t regret.

“It was definitely a blessing to go to Odessa,” Figueroa said reflecting on his time their.

While at Odessa, Figueroa ended up on the radar of former St. John’s assistant coach and recruiting guru, Matt Abdelmassih.

“I used to talk to St. John’s every now and then but it wasn’t anything too serious,” Figueroa said about the early days of the Red Storm’s recruitment of him.

“Around the end of the year, I really wanted to come to school back home, so I really weighed out my options.”

torchonline.com In late April of 2018, Figueroa officially committed to St. John’s, joining a talented roster. In May, the Red Storm added Mustapha Heron who decided to withdraw his name from the NBA Draft and instead move closer to home. With Heron, Figueroa and with the return of Shamorie Ponds, head coach Chris Mullin had a solid foundation to work with.

At the time, however, Figueroa was not a household name. He was just another transfer addition to an already transfer filled lineup. It didn’t take long however for Figueroa to be well known not just in the St. John’s fanbase but around the country as well.

Figueroa’s breakout game came on the road against Rutgers where he recorded a double-double scoring 23 points and grabbing 11 boards in the Red Storm’s win.

For Figueroa, the sudden emergence into the limelight didn’t come as a surprise as he gave it his all every time he stepped foot on the court.

“Honestly I wasn’t so surprised,” Figueroa said. “I was just going out and playing as hard as I can every night and doing what I could to help my team win. The results were the results but I left it all out on the court and I think that a lot of the fans really appreciated that from me.”

When reigning national champion No.13 Villanova came to Madison Square Garden for a Sunday night showdown with the Red Storm, Figueroa shined. He recorded another double-double snatching 12 boars and scoring 22 points, 16 of which came in the second half, helping the Red Storm to rally back and upset the Wildcats.

In late February, the Red Storm faced off against Providence College on the road in Rhode Island. Figueroa’s family and friends made the 80-mile journey to watch him play, filling up a few rows behind the Red Storm bench. Throughout the game, Figueroa’s entourage could be heard and seen on the broadcast, cheering him on.

“Some of my family had never watched me play before, so it was actually their first time watching me play” Figueroa said. “It was just a blessing and I can’t wait for this year again so they can come out.”

After a disappointing loss in the First Four round of the NCAA Tournament to Arizona State, St. John’s head coach Chris Mullin announced that he was stepping down.

The announcement brought with it a wave of players to transfer and some declared for the NBA Draft. Figueroa didn’t immediately leave however he did search for other possibilities around the country. While his decision to stay or go was in limbo, Figueroa cited that his family played a major part in his decision to stay at St. John’s

COURTSIDE | 5 “My family convinced me to stay, I talked to my family every day about the decision when I was in the transfer portal,” Figueroa said. “Coach Anderson talked to me and Mike Cragg our athletic director. They all want to see the best for me and I can’t ask for nothing more than that.

Over this past summer, Figueroa was given the opportunity to represent the Dominican Republic in the PanAm games. In the final game of the tournament, the Dominican Republic faced-off against the United States which featured Mustapha Heron. Figueroa was second on his team in scoring that game racking up 11 points.

“It was a great experience,” Figueroa said. “Just learning different things off the court from all of the veteran players, it was definitely a blessing.”

As Figueroa enters his second season with the Red Storm, he will look to have an even bigger impact than last season. Although he and his teammates have had to adapt to a new system under new head coach Mike Anderson, Figueroa’s skill set seems to be a perfect match for Anderson’s demanding “40 minutes of Hell.”

“I think personally, I am going to fit perfectly into this system,” Figueroa said confidently. “I think as a team we’re gonna succeed in the new system.”

TORCHPHOTO/NICK BELLO

6 | COURTSIDE

torchonline.com

ONE FINAL SEASON FOR KEBBE AND DUNCAN TORCHPHOTO/SPENCER CLINTON

ALICIA VENTER Staff Writer St. John’s Women Basketball seniors Shamachya Duncan and Alisha Kebbe are making their final appearances on this court in this upcoming 2019-2020 season, each having spent four years on the Red Storm team.

After a season plagued by injuries, hopes are high to surpass pre-season expectations, which currently have them placed as second in the conference.

“They all have to be able to share their experiences,” said head coach Joe Tartamella, when discussing Kebbe and Duncan, as well as their unofficial upperclassmen Tiana England, the redshirt-junior, and graduate student Alissa Alston, and they have to “share the way that we do things within our culture and in our program and also provide confidence to those younger players when they need it. “ Kebbe has built herself an impressive athletic resume during her time at St. John’s, which has not gone unnoticed by the coaches. Tartamella, when discussing the native of Philadelphia, said that “we expect a lot,” and

that she was “probably the most unsung player for us in all of our time.”

In her freshman year Kebbe was named to the BIG EAST All-Freshman Team, started in 32 games, and averaged 7.7 points per game. Her best game during this season was against Seton Hall, where she scored a season-high 17 points. As a sophomore, she started in 30 games, averaging 9.8 points per game, had 18 double-figure games and led the team in scoring on 8 different occasions as well as leading in free throw percentage with 84.7% for the year. Her success during this athletic year led her to being named to the All-Met Writers Association Third Team. Last season, Kebbe started in all 31 games, averaging 27.3 minutes per game, hitting double figures a team-high 19 times, averaging 10.7 points per game, and once again led the team in free throw percentage at 85%.

Her role on the team is very abstract but important, as she’s not always played her natural position, but has adapted and always ran with it. Tartamella shared how she had to be the team’s “swiss army knife. She’s got

torchonline.com to do a little bit of everything. She’s got to play inside, outside, rebound, score, defend, so there’s a lot that she brings to our team and I think a lot of our success will be because of her.”

Duncan also values her role on the team, as she made clear that she needs to lead the team. “I have a good idea of how coach needs us to play and what he needs us to do help the underclassmen,” she said. In describing her last four years, Duncan said the biggest impact the program has had on her is “learning the game of basketball. I’ve learned so much from the coaches.”

Duncan knows from experience how much work goes into a season and said that with the large number of freshmen this year, “we have to work harder than we have been in the past. Everyone’s learning to start playing at the collegiate level, so we just have to work harder, put our mind to it and focus.”

The Staten Island Native played in 9 games in her freshman season, then 15 during her sophomore year, scoring a total of 37 points. Her best game during

COURTSIDE | 7 the year was against Providence University, where she scored a total of 11 points with a 4-6 shooting effort.

Last season, she scored 13 points, with 17 on the year, scoring a season-most 6 against Ole Miss.

Duncan said that her favorite games were when they beat Marquette and when they played against UConn. “Even though we didn’t beat UConn,” she says, “it was still, like, one of our best games in my opinion. We played so hard, we fought until the end, nobody expected us to be that close, and then after that game we were on ESPN, so, even though it was a loss, it was still a great experience.”

Despite how she can still see a victory in a loss, Duncan believes they can turn last season’s close losses into wins through preparation, saying “preparing for the games will help so that when it comes down to the fourth quarter, we’re on our Ps and Qs.” She understands that preparation with help both their gameplay and their overall health, with conditioning in order to prevent another season packed with injuries.

TORCHPHOTO/SPENCER CLINTON

8 | COURTSIDE

torchonline.com

FROM HIGH SCHOOL TO COLLEGE Caraher and Steere are ready to take on NYC BRENDAN MURRAY Staff Writer David Caraher and Ian Steere grew up in North Carolina and played their high school basketball at Wesleyan Christian Academy. To say they just had success doesn’t give them enough credit.

Caraher was selected first-team all-state as a senior averaging 17 points and eight rebounds along with four assists while Steere starred alongside him. Together, the two finished as runner up in the NCISAA 3A State Championship while also playing together on the AAU team circuit with Team Charlotte.

For Caraher, the biggest influence on his athletic career is his father.

“He’s given me advice the whole way through and really been someone I’ve leaned on through this whole process,” he told the Torch.

Steere couldn’t narrow his biggest influence on a specific person, including everyone in his circle in his success..

“I’ve had a lot of people help me out throughout my career, my coaches, my parents, various people I met traveling. I have just had a lot of help and I’m very appreciative of that,” says Steere.

After high school, Caraher played his freshman year at Houston Baptist, where he won Southland Conference Freshman of the Year, while Steere played one game for NC State.

Now, both will suit up for the Red Storm this season.

The process of transferring wasn’t much of a difficult one once both found St. John’s as an option.

“It kind of just worked out that way that [Steere] decided to transfer from NC State and he was looking at some options and St. John’s became an option,” said Caraher. “[Steere] asked me what I thought and how being back together again would be. I’m really happy it worked out that way.”

Steere said that Caraher coming was a big factor in his decision to come to St. John’s but the decision came down to one simple factor: New York City..

“It’s the bright lights up here. You play in Madison Square Garden, all the lights are on you and all the attention is on you,” Steere said. “For some that pressure can be too much but for me I feel like it can motivate me to become the player I know I can be.”

Caraher attributed the bright lights of New York as being a factor in his decision to transfer to St. John’s.

He thinks that the experience of being on the court for games at Madison Square Garden and at Carnasecca, and the energy from the crowd and fans will take the program to another level.

Caraher’s goals for this season are team-oriented. He

“

FROM DAY ONE

[ANDERSON] CAME IN

AND KIND OF GAVE US

A FAMILY AND WANTED US TO BE A FAMILY.

DAVID CARAHER plans on helping to provide a winning culture in any way that he can and to be reliable in whatever role coach Mike Anderson sees fit.

For Steere the goal this season is simple –– “just win.”

COURTSIDE | 9

torchonline.com

TORCH PHOTO/MICHAELA KEEGAN

Whatever it takes was the motto coming off of the Red Storm players; they all seem to be echoing the mentality that they will all chip in and do what it takes to come out on top.

For both players, getting used to a new school and new team can be a challenge but when you mix in a new coach that wasn’t here last year, you can get chaos.

Both Steere and Caraher weren’t afraid to face the challenges that are ahead with coach Mike Anderson.

“From day one [Anderson] came in and kind of gave us a family and wanted us to be a family,” Caraher says.

“He wanted everyone to know how much he cared and how much he wants this program to increase and continue to be a national powerhouse.”

For Steere, the learning process under Anderson has been chaotic at times but not something he will shy away from.

“It’s been interesting. It’s not weird but a little chaotic at first because we were trying to figure him out and he was trying to figure us out, the situation was kind of wonky.”

After being through practices with Anderson, Steere was surprised at how hard they were being pushed.

Steere said, after getting to know Anderson, that he is a great coach and the whole process is working out successfully.

Going into the season Steere and Caraher said that

TORCH PHOTO/ AMANDA NEGRETTI

Red Storm fans can look forward to a high energy group that is loud and ready to win in any way possible. Caraher and Steere started their careers together playing winning basketball. Now, they will try to bring their winning to New York.

10 | COURTSIDE

torchonline.com

CECILIA HOLMBERG’S TRANSITION FROM SWEDEN TO QUEENS SYDNEY DENHAM Staff Writer Sweden-native Cecilia Holmberg faces many transitions in coming to the St. John’s University Women’s Basketball team.

“There’s a huge difference in many ways, both basketball-wise and going to school and learning a different language,” tells the Torch.

The 18-year-old Holmberg was born and raised in the small coastal town of Bjarred, Sweden. Moving to Queens, New York, meant that she had to adjust from high school to college basketball and transition from Swedish to English –– a major change for the freshman.

Accomplishments and Predicted Impact Holmberg played for several highly selective teams back in her home country. These national teams included the U15, U16, U18 and U20 teams. Holmberg considers it an honor to represent her country while playing for these teams.

Holmberg’s athletic talent has been recognized through numerous honors. She was a part of three European Championships. Back in 2015, she was selected to the Federation International Basketball Association (FIBA) Camp as one of the top two talents in Sweden. In 2018 and 2019, Homberg was selected as the National Champions Elite Eight MVP.

What is Holmberg’s Greatest Accomplishment to Date?

“As an athlete, probably winning the national championship for Sweden,” Holmberg says. “It really was a great moment, and it was my last high school game.”

From her performance in this national championship game, Holmberg was selected to the All-Star Team.

Standing 6’2’’ as a freshman with all of these high accolades, Holmberg knows she has a lot to offer St. John’s and hopes to have a successful first year on this team.

“I think I’m a versatile player,” Holmberg said. “I hope to be able to contribute both under the baskets and to be able to shoot and be able to do what the team needs me to do.”

Why St. John’s?

Holmberg said that she knew St. John’s would provide her with the most opportunities.

“Being able to play in this great conference and at a great school, while getting a great education at the same time,” she says.

Specifically, the coaches affiliated with St. John’s Women’s Basketball caught her attention. “I really liked it when I talked to them,” Holmberg said.

Holmberg was also impressed with this team’s performance history. She wanted to work with Joe Tartamella, who has been the head coach of the Women’s Basketball team for seven seasons.

Who has Helped in Her Transition?

Holmberg credits the whole team for helping make her move to Queens much easier.

“I think all of our upperclassmen are really great people,”Holmberg said. “They really help you with everything both off and on the courts.”

With many veteran players on the team, Holmberg can turn to many people for guidance. She is continuously grateful for everything they have done throughout preseason workouts to make her feel a part of the team, she said.

Head Coach Tartamella Hopes for Success Tartamella sees a lot of opportunity for Holmberg.

“We hope we expect a lot,” Tartamella said. “We really need her to be a presence defensively for us when she can be.”

He also shared that her offensive work will also be important. She can shoot, he added, and he knows she will be seeing some points up on the board for the Johnnies.

torchonline.com

I hope to be able to contribute both under the baskets and to be able to shoot and be able to do what the team needs me to do.

Cecilia Holmberg

In transitioning from Sweden, Tartamella understands there are minor differences in the game. He said she will be rebounding probably more than she is used to back home. Yet, he knows she can fulfill the expectations to advance her basketball career.

“She needs to be as good as we can hope her freshman year,” Tartamella said. “She didn’t really have a summer because she was home playing with her national team.”

Tartamella said Holmberg really understands the game and she will help the team in setting screens.

What’s to Come?

The Women’s Basketball team has their first game on Tuesday, Nov. 5, where they take on the St. Bonaventure Bonnies at the Reily Center. This game will be the start of something big for the Johnnies, especially with all of their incoming freshmen.

“It’s a great team, it has a lot of great people,” Holmberg says. “I think we can really do some great things this year. We have high expectations for ourselves.”

TORCH PHOTO/MICHAELA KEEGAN

“

COURTSIDE | 11

12 | COURTSIDE

torchonline.com

BASKETBALL SUPERLATIVES Get to know your Men’s and Women’s Basketball Teams

NICK BELLO Sports Editor With every new season comes unfamiliarity as players come and go. The unfamiliarity eventually subsides over the summer months and into the fall as teams spend a lot of time during workouts before the season begins, thus becoming a family. Every team has its variety of personalities that fans don’t necessarily get to witness on the court.

In an effort to get to know the St. John’s men’s and women’s basketball teams, the Torch conducted a survey of sorts, asking players from each team a series of superlative questions. Here is what we found.

Class Clown: Josh Roberts Sophomore forward Josh Roberts won the class clown vote by a landslide as Ian Steere and Damian Sears came in a tie for second place with two votes apiece. Roberts didn’t vote for himself, instead voting for David Caraher, while senior forward Mustapha Heron did vote for himself. So what exactly makes Josh Roberts funny? Here’s graduate transfer Thomas O’Connell’s explanation.

“

Just things he says, things he does. Sometimes he doesn’t even mean to be funny and you’ll be like ‘haha this guy’,” O’Connell said. “Just a happy go lucky guy and he’s a good vibe around the locker room.”

Alissa Alston Redshirt senior Alissa Alston won by one vote, narrowly beating out both Qadashah Hoppie and Raven Farley.

Also receiving votes in this category was Kadaja Bailey and Tianna England, who voted for herself. Alston, although she voted for Hoppie, also voted for herself, showing her confidence in her sense of humor.

“

Besides myself that’s kind of hard,” Alston said. “We’ve got a lot of characters on the team.”

Most Talktative: Mustapha Herron/Ian Steere Herron tied for most talkative while Sears trailed behind by one vote. Steere received two votes while Marcellus Earlington and Julian Champagnie, each received one vote. Although at first glance Champagnie may not seem talkative, the freshman forward from Brooklyn can become talkative at times, as Sears explained, “once Julian warms up to you, he talks a lot.”

It isn’t a surprise that Herron is the most talkative as his ease for conversation can be seen in the way he interacts with the media.

“

He [Mustapha] doesn’t stop talking,” Sophomore forward L.J. Figueroa said.

“He’s the biggest chatter on the team definitely.”

torchonline.com

COURTSIDE | 13

Raven Farley Farley won most talkative by a landslide, winning by a three-vote differential. Coming in second place was Alisha Kebbe, while both England and Hoppie voted for themselves. For the most part, Farley’s teammates that voted for her, voted with confidence as Shamachia Duncan voted without even missing a beat.

Who Would You Want To Be Stuck On A Deserted Island With?

Mustapha Heron As Herron is the oldest member of the Red Storm and may even be considered the team’s leader, it is no question why his teammates would want to be stuck on a deserted island with him. Although Herron did win this category with three votes. The voting was scattered for the most part as Roberts, O’Connell and Earlington were tied in second with two votes and Greg Williams, Steere and Sears all received one vote.

“

He’d fit that leadership role,” Roberts said when asked why he picked Herron. “If I didn’t know what to do, he’d definitely know.”

Qadasha Hoppie The voting for the deserted island question was scattered, in the end however, Hoppie won with three votes. Also receiving votes in this category was Duncan, who came in second with two votes, England, Emma Nolan, Camry Clegg and Unique Drake. Interestingly enough, both Clegg and Drake voted for each other, which is most certainly a positive thing since you wouldn’t want to be stuck on a deserted island with someone who doesn’t want to be there with you or vice versa.

“

They make me a better version of myself,” Alston said. “Having them along with me every step of the way, it’s gonna be great.”

Best Dressed: Damien Sears Sears won the best dressed with six votes, narrowly beating out Willams who received five votes. Also receiving votes in this category were Figueroa and Rasheem Dunn. Many players also voted for themselves as Herron, Dunn, Earlington, Williams and Justin Cole all seemed confident in their fashion choices.

“

His style is different,” Roberts said when discussing the wardrobe of Williams. “He’s got different drip.”

Alyssa Alston/Alisha Kebbe Alston and Kebbe tied for the best dressed category with five votes apiece, while Kadaja Bailey received one vote and Duncan voted for everyone.

“

I gotta go with my son drip, Alyssa Alston,” Hoppie said. “We call her that because she likes to get dressed up a lot.”

14 | COURTSIDE

torchonline.com

FROM MULLIN TO ANDERSON St. John’s Athletes Excited for the Season SYDNEY DENHAM Staff Writer

This season’s first exhibition game is on Wednesday, Oct. 30, at Carnesecca Arena, where the Johnnies will take on Queens College.

“What happened here the other night,” Anderson said, “all that did was wet my appetite even more.”

With 6.00 a.m. practices and high-intensity energy, the returning St. John’s University Men’s Basketball players like what they are seeing from Coach Mike Anderson.

After the departure of head coach Chris Mullin in April of 2019, several players transferred to other basketball Predicted leaders: LJ Figueroa and Mustapha Heron programs with only a handful of players deciding to return to St. John’s for this upcoming season. At the LJ Figueroa and Mustapha Heron come into this seaBig East Conference Media Day, Coach Anderson said son looking to lead the Red Storm to success. These he looks forward to havtwo players had big years ing the ability to coach during the Mullin era.

TORCH PHOTO/MICHAELA KEEGAN such great players in an According to Red Storm inspiring environment Sports, Figueroa was like St. John’s. ranked #3 on the team “This city’s a lot and I and 14th in the Big East can’t wait to put a team in scoring, while Heron on the court,” Coach was ranked #2 on the Anderson said. team and 13th in the Big When Coach MulEast in scoring. lin announced he was Veterans on this team, leaving St. John’s basFigueroa and Heron, are ketball, the question excited to see their work around campus and reflect in games. Both are the Conference was of key players in assisting who was going to take younger players to get a his place. After about a feel for playing not only month of searching, St. at St. John’s but also in John’s found their man. the Big East Conference.

Mike Anderson was announced as the 21st head The transition to Anderson’s system has motivated coach for St. John’s Basketball on Apr. 19, 2019. He Figueroa and Heron. came to Queens from Arkansas, where he held the “It’s is definitely a whole different type of style of basposition as head coach for the Razorbacks the past 8 ketball,”Figueroa says, “but it’s definitely very exciting.” seasons. During his 17-year career in Division I college After the departure of Mullins, Figueroa—from Lawbasketball, Anderson has never had a losing season. rence, MA—entered the transfer portal. After talking to What was Anderson’s first impression of the Queens campus?

Coach Anderson liked what he saw at Tip-Off on Oct. 18, and he hopes to build on that energy throughout the 2019-2020 season.

his family, he knew staying was the best decision.

He is confident that the work Anderson brings will pay off in the end. Effort is key to success, according to Figueroa. “With a lot of young players, they need to understand that this is what will help this team win,” he said during an interview.

As one of the older players on the team, Figueroa is

torchonline.com

“

Heron, a Connecticut-native, knew he needed to stay at St. John’s. The expectations for this team are always high, he said, and it has always been a competitive team.

Heron believes Anderson’s style is so different from what St. John’s is used to, it will surprise the Big East rivals.

Not only does Heron appreciate Anderson on the court—but also outside of it. Heron said that Anderson reminds him of his own father, especially his jokes. Heron has been there for Anderson through recruitments and his start to coaching this team.

With it being Heron’s last year he said it’s “do or die.”

COURTSIDE | 15

I like to be in your face and he’s somebody who likes to get in your face so it’s gonna be fun -Heron

Second-year guard: Greg Williams The team’s guard, Greg Williams, was familiar with Anderson. He knew of his background and coaching style even before the announcement that he was head coach. Williams is expected to be a strong presence going into this season after playing 28 games for Mullin, the most of any freshman last year.

Even through the expected transition, Williams knew that the team had to set goals to work towards. The team had to put their all out there.

Williams said Anderson is supplying hard work and progress everyday.

“I feel like it [the transition] benefitted me as far as being a player and learning different playing styles from different coaches,” Williams said.

New York-native: Marcellus Earlington Coach Anderson has high expectations for forward, Marcellus Earlington. Earlington comes into this season after playing in 15 games under Mullin.

“Marcellus needs to be our glue guy,” Coach Anderson said.

Earlington knew he wanted to play for Coach Anderson. He described Anderson as a “hard-working, demanding coach,” and that is exactly how Earlington wants to play. The first thing Anderson said to Earlington over a phone call was, “You’re gonna be a great player for me.” This established Earlington’s confidence to stay at St. John’s, although others transferred to other schools.

The transition to Anderon’s style was difficult, but Ear-

lington credits the team for pushing through and working hard.

“In the end, Mike treated you like family,” Earlington said, “he made you feel like you were one of his own so that family aspect of it definitely was a key.”

Looking past the predictions

Several ESPN commentators predict St. John’s to finish last in the 2019-2020 Big East Conference. The team leaders brushed off these rankings, saying that they are motivated by the fresh season. Anderson embraces challenges, and being here in New York is one of the biggest ones he has faced.

“Our charge is to put a product out that they are going to enjoy watching,” Anderson said. “I think our guys are anxious to come out and hopefully put it on display.”

TORCH PHOTO/SPENCER CLINTON

16 | COURTSIDE

torchonline.com

AIMING FOR VICTORY Correa kicks-off her collegiate career BRENDAN MURRAY Staff Writer Leilani Correa is coming to St. John’s with a track record of winning. Correa was rated a four-star recruit by ESPN HoopGurlz and ranked 21 in the country at her position coming out of Manchester Township High School. In her first three seasons, Correa played for Rutgers-Prep, leading them to three straight South Jersey Non-Public B titles. Correa also starred on the US U18 3x3 National Championship team.

“Without me already they were already a good team,” Correa told the Torch. “Last season was just motivation for this season and upcoming seasons.”

Correa’s senior year saw her average 16.8 points and seven and a half rebounds per game. She was never interested in her overall stats- what she wanted to do most was help her team win. Now, Correa is looking to give St. John’s a winning performance day in and day out.

Correa sees the Red Storm playing a fast-paced system this season and she believes that this type of system will play to her strengths.

“Being able to shoot the three and attacking the rim is what we are going to be doing,” Correa says. “I think that I will be a really good fit.”

St. John’s is close to home for Correa, she didn’t want to go too far away from home when looking for a program and a school to attend. St. John’s had what

TORCH PHOTO/SPENCER CLINTON

torchonline.com TORCH PHOTO/SPENCER CLINTON

Correa wanted in her mind for her college career.

“I really clicked here when I came to visit St. John’s,” Correa says. “Especially with the coaching staff and the girls everything was perfect.”

Growing up in Manchester Township, Correa wasn’t far from New York City. She hasn’t gotten a chance to visit any attractions but is looking forward to doing so in the future.

“I’ve only been to Times Square once in my life, I look forward to going again and exploring part of [New York City]” Balancing schoolwork and being a student athlete are challenging for an incoming freshman the task can seem overwhelming. Correa credits the coaching and the overall focus of the program with instilling a ‘schoolwork comes first’ attitude.

“We have study hall hours before and after practices,” Correa says. “We get our work done on and off the court either way.”

Correa’s teammates have made her feel at home.

They have helped her to feel comfortable in her new environment with their sense of humor and she finds them to be very cool.

COURTSIDE | 17 Coach Tartamella is known to have great relationships with his players and for Correa that is no different.

“He’s an amazing coach he tells us what we need to get better at,” Correa said. “We have an understanding on and off the court on what needs to get done. What I love about him is he has a relationship with each and every one of the girls on and off the court.”

Correa credits her parents with being the biggest influence on her athletic career. They pushed her to do her best and were there for her when she was looking at schools to take her career to.

Correa’s love for basketball comes from her father who pushed her to continue playing after she was cut from her sixth-grade team.

“He pushed me to try out again and he’s been pushing me ever since, telling me what to do and what not to do and really helped me.”

When Correa was cut from the team, she didn’t panic at all because of her father who told her that she could really play well someday.

“My dad saw me play and told me I could be very good. I was always taller than everybody else, I jumped the highest, ran the fastest.” After playing AAU Correa started to see how good of a player she could really become.

Correa tells Red Storm fans to expect a team that is hard working. They plan on sticking together and improving on their rough year last time around.

With a full healthy squad this time around for the Red Storm the team has the potential for a captivating season. With the addition of a player like Correa it only adds to the intrigue and hope that surrounds this year’s squad.

TORCH PHOTO/SPENCER CLINTON

FOURTH AND FINAL J.P. DEVETORI Staff Writer TORCH PHOTOS /SPENCER CLINTON

JUSTIN COLE has been with the team where he

saw many teammates come and go. Entering his fourth and final year with the Red Storm, Cole has been with the team during their ups and downs.

“It’s been a great time to play basketball at this level and being around with my teammates during the course of four years here.” Cole said. Cole started off as a walk-on his freshman year and played in two games under Chris Mullin’s second season as head coach. During his sophomore year, Cole saw more playing time by appearing in six games, averaging in 0.7 rebounds in 3.7 minutes per contest.

Last season he also appeared in six games averaging 0.8 points per game. Cole is entering his final season and he is focused on what is coming up, “I’m just enjoying this last year. We got to continue working hard each day and win as many games as possible.” Cole said. Not many NCAA Division I basketball players stay for four years but Justin Cole is one of the various St. John’s Red Storm basketball players to stay for the entire four-year span.

Cole had connections with the Red Storm before

starting his college career. In high school, Cole was a two-year captain at Archbishop Molloy, which is the alma mater of St. John’s Hall of Fame coach Lou Carnesecca. He started off his St. John’s career under the helm of Chris Mullin. Now his senior year will be without him. Getting adjusted to a new coach staff is challenging but Cole and his teammates know how to manage the situation. “We had to get familiar with each other. We come out and work hard every practice from the beginning to now.” Cole said. Cole’s main focus entering this season is get more appearances on the court than the last two seasons. After his senior season, Cole also has important plans off the basketball court.

“I’m planning to go to physician assistant school.”

Cole said.

Out of all Cole’s favorite memories playing for the Red Storm, he picked one that many of his teammates can agree on. “Beating Duke at the Garden is the top memory of my time here.” Cole said. Justin Cole is looking forward to finishing his senior season with the Red Storm on a strong note.

19 | COURTSIDE

torchonline.com

“

I’M JUST ENJOYING THIS LAST YEAR. WE GOT TO CONTINUE WORKING HARD EACH DAY AND WIN AS MANY GAMES AS POSSIBLE.

- JUSTIN COLE

TORCH PHOTOS /SPENCER CLINTON

STAFF PREDICTIONS

20 | COURTSIDE

Alicia Venter

Brendan Murray

torchonline.com MEN’S

WOMEN’S

Record: 20-12 Most Important Game: Feb 2 vs. Georgetown Best Player: LJ Figueroa Best Newcomer: Julian Champagnie

Record: 21-8 Most Important Game: Jan 5 vs. Villanova Best Player: Tiana England Best Newcomer: Emma Nolan

MEN’S

WOMEN’S

Record: 15-16 Most Important Game: Jan 18 vs. Seton Hall Best Player: LJ Figueroa Best Newcomer: Julian Champagnie

MEN’S

Nick Bello

Record: 18-13 Most Important Game: Arizona State Best Player: L.J. Figueroa Best Newcomer: Julian Champagnie

MEN’S

Nick McCreven

Record: 14-18.

Most Important Home vs.

Seton Hall (Jan. 18).

Best Player: Mustapha Heron.

Best Newcomer: Julian Champagnie

Record: 19-15 Most Important Game: Jan 10 vs. Marquette Best Player: Alisha Kebbe Best Newcomer: Leilani Correa

WOMEN’S Record: 20-14 Most Important Game: DePaul Best Player: Tiana England Best Newcomer: Leilani Correa

WOMEN’S Record: 19-10.

Most Important Game: Home vs. DePaul (Feb. 7).

Best Player: Qadashah Hoppie Best Newcomer: Unique Drake

COURTSIDE | 21

torchonline.com

Record: 16-14 Most Important Jan. 18th vs. Seton Hall Best Player: L.J. Figueroa Best Newcomer: Julian Champagnie

MEN’S Record: 17-14 Most Important Arizona State Best Player: L.J. Figueroa Best Newcomer: Julian Champagnie

MEN’S Record: 18-13 Most Important Game: Jan 18 vs Seton Hall Best Player: LJ Figueroa Best Newcomer: Ian Steere

MEN’S Record: 16-15 Most Important Game: Dec 7 vs West Virginia Best Player: Ian Steere Best Newcomer: Julian Champagnie

WOMEN’S Record: 21-9 Most Important Game: Feb. 7th vs. DePaul Best Player: Tiana England Best Newcomer: Unique Drake

Sean Okula

WOMEN’S Record: 20-11 Most Important Game: James Madison Best Player: Tiana England Best Newcomer: Cecilia Holmberg

Sydney Denham

WOMEN’S Record: 20-14 Most Important Game: Marquette Jan 10 Best Player: Qadasha Hoppie Best Newcomer: Leilani Correa

Thomas Cavanagh

WOMEN’S Record: 19-10 Most Important Game: The championship game in the Lady Rebel Round-Up Best Player: Raven Farley Best Newcomer: Cecilia Holmberg

J.P. Devetori

STAFF PREDICTIONS

MEN’S

22 | COURTSIDE

torchonline.com

Raven Farley on transitioning to Big East J.P. DEVETORI Staff Writer Raven Farley is entering her first season with the St. John’s Red Storm women’s basketball team. Transferring from LSU in the middle of last season, Farley transitioned from the SEC to the Big East.

“The transition was very smooth. Everyone welcomed me with open arms, they’re happy to have me here.” Farley tells the Torch.

Last season at LSU, Farley played in eight games averaging six minutes. She showcased her skills in her freshman season where she played 25 games averaging 12.2 minutes and even had three-consecutive starts before entering the transfer portal in January.

While she scored 1.7 points per game during her freshman season, Farley ranked fifth in rebounds with 2.7 points per game.

Farley is no stranger to the metropolitan area. The New Jersey native played high school basketball at

Queen of Peace High School, where she was listed as the No. 14 prospect in the 2016-17 signing class by ProspectsNation.com and placed on the watch list for the Naismith Trophy Girls Basketball Player of the Year.

Farley also played in the Jordan Brand Classic as well as being a McDonald’s All-American.

Before choosing LSU, many schools were on her radar, St. John’s being one of them. “St. John’s was in my top five during my senior year in high school.” She says. “I wasn’t intrigued then but I’m happy to be here now.”

The biggest change Farley sees in her transition from LSU to St. John’s is the coaching staff.

“Coaching staff is a lot different. I like the St. John’s coaching staff better, they’re more hands on, they tell you exactly what they want from you, they try to get the best out of you,” The player continues. “When you’re not delivering they let you step aside and watch film to let you know what they want and what is needed from me and the team.”

TORCH PHOTO/NICK BELLO

RAVEN FARLEY

TORCH PHOTO/SPENCER CLINTON

“

24 | COURTSIDE

torchonline.com

IT’S UP TO YOU, NEW YORK Can Anderson Make It In NYC? NICK BELLO Sports Editor In the confines of Madison Square Garden, away from the crowded and raucous streets of Manhattan, newly hired St. John’s Head Coach Mike Anderson sits at a table atop a platform for Big East Media Day, where reporters bombard the newest face in the Big East.

Five months earlier, Anderson was first introduced to the New York spotlight at MSG after former St. John’s star Chris Mullin stepped down from his head coach duties. Anderson’s journey to New York is one you can only find in the movies as the Birmingham Alabama native bounced around the south and the midwest before ending up in on our campus.

“Coming from Birmingham, Alabama, which is the football capital of the world, then I go out west and play at Tulsa University for coach [Nolan] Richardson, live in Arkansas for 25 years and now I’m in New York,” tells the Torch. “It’s a journey that I’ve been on. Everywhere I’ve been, we’ve had the opportunity to be successful and so I just have a feeling in my heart, I’m gonna win a national championship and maybe it’s gonna be [in New York].”

Anderson was recruited to play for hall of fame head coach Nolan Richardson at Tulsa after playing at Jefferson State Community College in his hometown of Birmingham. While playing for Richardson, Anderson averaged 12 points per game, winning an NIT title in 1981 and then making it to the NCAA Tournament in 1982.

After his playing days were over, Anderson followed Richardson, serving on Richardson’s coaching staff at both Tulsa and Arkansas. Anderson spent 17 years in Arkansas, helping the Razorbacks make it to three final four’s and winning a national championship in 1995.

While in Fayetteville, Anderson was schooled on the famous “40 Minutes of Hell,” an uptempo and aggressive style of play that starts when at tip-off and doesn’t end until the final buzzer.

“He’s a father figure to me,” Anderson says when talking about his mentor. “I’ve always said, when you talk about hall of fame coaches and coaches who have

had so much impact on the game, I used to have the opportunity to walk down the street and tap into [Richardson], that was big.”

Following his stay in Arkansas, Anderson then headed back to his hometown, becoming the head coach for the University of Alabama Birmingham. In just his second season as head coach, Anderson brought the Dragons to the NCAA Tournament, and did so for the following two years. After four seasons at the helm of UAB, Anderson then went to Missouri, where he brought the Tigers to the NCAA Tournament in three out of the five years he was in Columbia.

In 2011, Anderson returned to Arkansas to take over the program that he onced helped bring to national prominence.

Anderson would go on to spend eight seasons at the helm of the Razorbacks bringing them to the NCAA Tournament eight times. His most memorable season came in 2014-15 where the Razorbacks, led by Bobby Portis, who currently plays for the New York Knicks, finished second in the SEC, earning themselves the fifth seed in the NCAA Tournament.

At the end of last season, Anderson was fired from Arkansas. Not too long after he was fired however, Anderson received a call from St. John’s Athletic Director Mike Cragg.

In an ESPN article from early October, Cragg reportedly asked legendary Duke head coach Mike Krzyzewski for advice on his coaching search. Krzyzewski recommended Anderson, saying that he would be a “home run.”“Obviously as a coach you, you look up to [Kzyzewski], you respect him and I was very cordial with him always,” Anderson says about Coach K’s recommendation. “Maybe he’s been watching what we’ve been doing whether it be at Arkansas, UAB or Missouri. I take that wholeheartedly, if he was one of those guys that vouched for me.”Anderson was officially hired on April 19 and was introduced at MSG later that afternoon.

With the eye and cameras of the New York media, Anderson showed off his charm, pitching his vision for the Red Storm to the public like a salesman.

“When you come to Madison Square Garden, when

COURTSIDE | 25

torchonline.com

“

... THESE GUYS ARE GOING TO GET THE

CHANCE TO SHOWCASE THEIR GOD GIVEN ABILITY.

MIKE ANDERSON

TORCH PHOTO/SPENCER CLINTON

you come to Carnesecca Arena, you are going to see a team that is going to be really entertaining,” Anderson says. “They are going to guard, they are going to defend, they are going to be one of the top assist teams in the country, and they are going to be one of the top turnover teams in the country. They will be one of the best scoring teams and field goal teams. It’s going to be a team that has depth, these guys are going to get the chance to showcase their God-given ability.”The big question looming over the Anderson hire was whether or not a coach, who hadn’t lived in the New York area and didn’t have any ties to the area, could succeed in recruiting.

Anderson proved the doubters wrong over the summer, landing Julian Champagnie, a 6-foot-5-inch forward from Brooklyn who will suit up for the Red Storm this season. Champagnie was just the beginning as Posh Alexander, a three star recruit in the class of 2020 from the Bronx, committed to St. John’s in late August.

Alexander also brought his teammate Dylan Wusu, another three star recruit.

With Anderson’s recruiting ability mostly out of the question for now, he must now show that he can bring St. John’s back to national promise. Given Anderson’s track record, the 59-year-old has shown that he can turn programs around, Although it is still too early to tell whether or not he can do that at St. John’s, it seems like

his players have already bought into his system.

“A lot of guys are picking [Anderson’s system] up quick,” junior forward L.J. Figueroa said. “Definitely a lot of guys are learning.”

In his opening press conference Anderson preached that his teams were going be a family and that his players were welcomed over his house at any time. That promise is something that he has kept his end of the bargain on, as his cool demeanor off the court is appreciated by his players.

“He actually reminds me of my father,” senior forward Mustapha Heron said. “He’s definitely chill off the court.”While Anderson has gained the trust and commitment of his players, he must now get results on the court in order to obtain the trust and support of the fans. This will be no easy task, but Anderson’s resume is proof that he is more than capable of getting it done as he has not had a losing season, boasting a 369-200 record in his coaching career.

Anderson has taken on what could be considered a daunting task, accepting a head coaching job in an unfamiliar place, a place that can chew you up and spit you out faster than you can say Manhattan.

They say that if you can make it here, you can make it anywhere. But for Anderson, he has made it everywhere else but here. So the question is, can he make it here?

TORCH PHOTO/NICK BELLO

CALM UNDER PRESSURE NICK BELLO Sports Editor

Pressure can be crippling for just about anyone. Politicians, movie stars and even athletes can succumb to the pressure of being at the pinnacle of performance in their field. For redshirt Tianna England of the St. John’s Women’s Basketball team, pressure has been their every step of the way in her collegiate career. However, England hasn’t let it get to her, remaining calm, cool and collected every step of the way.

England’s calm demeanor on the basketball court started in her childhood, growing up in Stamford, Connecticut about an hour away from St. John’s. England’s two older brothers didn’t take easy on their little sister on the basketball court, instilling a sense of toughness into her.

“I was always outside playing with the boys on the playground so that definitely helped, getting bumped around,” England said. “I was always tough.”

Not only was toughness instilled at a young age but her comfort in crunch time situations was as well. England says even when she started playing basketball, she was always comfortable with the ball in her hand with the game on the line.“I’ve always felt like I was confident with the ball towards the end of the game,”

she said. “As a leader I should want that responsibility.”

While England has blossomed as a leader for the Red storm, her collegiate career got off to a rough start. Before the beginning of her freshman year, England was sidelined with a torn ACL which forced her to redshirt.

Although the situation was unfortunate, looking back on it, England sees it as a learning experience.

“It was very hard, from going to playing basketball every day, working out all summer with the team to sitting out for an entire year and not being able to be out there with them, it was real difficult,” England said.

Sitting out for her true freshman year allowed for England to prepare herself for the demands of college basketball, giving herself more time to take her game to the next level.“I think it was a blessing in disguise,” England said reflecting on the injury. “I definitely needed that year to figure out the system, get chemistry with my teammates even off the court and it definitely helped being in my redshirt junior year.”

Although the extra year gave England more time to prepare for her college career, St. John’s head coach Joe Tartamella feels that although she was just a freshman, her impact would have propelled the Red Storm

torchonline.com to postseason play that season had she been healthy.

“I’m [remised] to go back and think about the year we would’ve had her when she tore her ACL, which would’ve put us in the tournament, no question,” Tartamella said.

In her redshirt freshman year, England shined starting in 32 of the Red Storm’s 34 games and earning her way onto the Big East All-Freshman team once the season ended. As the team’s star point guard however, Tartamella was demanding of England, getting on the redshirt freshman for mistakes she made during games.

However, England was unbothered by the demands of her coach.“I’ve always had, I wouldn’t call it pressure but I’ve always had to step up for the team,” England explained. “It wasn’t much of a demand.”

“She’s an unbelievable young lady, in her demeanor and how she deals with her teammates,” Tartamella said, praising England. “Just an impressive young woman who I think got a bright future in whatever she decides to do.”

In England’s redshirt sophomore year, she continued to shine under pressure, as she was in the top 20 in the nation in assists. In the Red Storm’s upset of Marquette last season at Carnesecca Arena, England her team to victory with 20 points and six assists. To encapsulate

COURTSIDE | 27 what was a strong sophomore campaign, England was named to the All-Met first team.

Although England has a successful campaign, the Red Storm had a down year as they were unable to make it into postseason play.

“It’s always hard to see your friends in the Big East that you know in the Big East that are out their playing and you’re sitting at home watching,” England said. “That was definitely a wakeup call that we had to come way harder this year.”Heading into this season, more will be demanded of England. Just a few weeks ago she was named to the 2020 Nancy Lieberman Award watch list, which is given out to the best point guard in the nation.

“Honestly it’s an honor to be on the watch list,” England said. “I feel like it has brought attention to us as a team more than just more so myself. We’re getting the recognition for our hard work this preseason and hopefully, it’s gonna translate into the regular season.”

As high expectations have been set on the Red Storm being ranked second in the Big East preseason poll, England has also set high expectations for herself going into her redshirt junior season.

“I want to be even more of a leader,” England said.

“I feel like this is a big year for us, we have a lot of new pieces. It’s a transition for us this year so I’m excited.”

TORCH PHOTO/SPENCER CLINTON

28 | COURTSIDE

torchonline.com

THE RED STORM RETURNS TO NIKE ALICIA VENTER Staff Writer The Athletic Department at St. John’s University officially launched a renewed partnership with Nike for this 2019-2020 academic year. The world-renowned brand will provide athletic footwear, equipment and apparel for both training and game day uniforms for all 17 St. John’s programs and their 300-plus student athletes, as well as including promotional and marketing opportunities.

This partnership comes after a six-year contract with Under Armour, which began in September 2013. Before this, the Red Storm had been partnered with Nike since the mid-90s, their history dating back to when Hall of Fame coach Lou Carnesecca was on the court.

Joe Tartamella, the Women’s Basketball Head Coach, shared his excitement about returning to Nike, as he was assistant head coach under their partnership before Under Armour. He said that “going back to Nike is a big shift, which is great,” and “Nike’s always been a great partner, so we are excited about that partnership again and hopefully as long as we can.”

Tartamella hopes that the excitement from the partnership is present not only in his players but in possible recruits, as “we hope it [the excitement] translates over to get to be able to recruit to that.”

The players are also excited about the partnership, particularly due to getting to wear the Nike shoes. Redshirt junior Tiana England shared in her coach’s senti-

“

Nike’s always been a great partner, so we are excited about that partnership again ...

Joe Tartamella

ment, saying that her and the team were “really excited to have Nike here,” and that the new gear was “Going to change their swag on the court.”

Men’s Basketball senior Justin Cole, who considers himself “a Nike guy,” shared his excitement as well, saying that he was excited for “the feel of the sneakers.”

His teammate Marcellus Earlington, who is a sophomore, played in a Nike EYBL (Elite Youth Basketball League) and at a Nike Elite high school. With this upcoming season, he said that “it’s like a new era kind of, you know, with a new coach and a new partnership, so this is definitely an exciting time.”

“We are excited to realign St. John’s Athletics with an iconic brand and pioneer in sports performance,” said St. John’s Director of Athletics Mike Cragg in a press release. “Providing premier resources to our student-athletes is a central focus of our department and we believe fostering this partnership with Nike demonstrates our commitment to competing at the highest level for our respective sports.”

Cragg enters his second year as Director of Athletics at St. John’s, but previous to this he spent three decades at Duke University as their Deputy Director of Athletics and Chief Operating Officer, playing a large role in the growth of their basketball team. He had a close relationship with Nike, likely a major reason for the switch from Under Armour to Nike.

Appointed as Athletic Director in October 2018, Cragg has made clear his motives to provide the same growth for Red Storm Athletics as he did for the Blue Devils. In a press release, St. John’s publicly announced, “the launch of concurrent planning processes to establish a new strategic plan and master facilities plan that will serve as the blueprint for the future of Red Storm Athletics.”

The switch to Nike is just one of Cragg’s many changes for St. John’s, as he also plans to create an entire new locker room for the men’s basketball team and changes are being done for the women’s basketball team’s locker room. Cragg’s goal is to reinvent athletics at St. John’s University in order to create a winning environment, and part of doing this involves the partnership with Nike.

Cragg told reporters of the New York Post over a

torchonline.com

COURTSIDE | 29

phone interview that the reconnection with Nike “puts us with a partner that is the top brand in the world when it comes to shoes and apparel and footwear… To be a part of that Nike family is a huge honor and we’re real excited about the partnership and think it can take us to another level.”

The shift to Nike from Under Armour also was possibly due to the financial success of Nike in the 2018 fiscal year, in which revenues for Nike rose 6 percent to $36.4 billion, while revenue for Under Armour was only $5.8 billion.

Economically, Nike has the capability to provide the St. John’s Athletic Department much more than Under Amour ever could.

Statistically, basketball teams partnered with Nike have been more successful, with Nike affiliated schools winning six straight national championships and ten of the last eleven overall championships in men’s basketball. The Athletic Department is undoubtably desiring these results with their alignment with this world-renowned industry.

Due to timing and the little time available for turnaround, there will not be significant changes this coming season. However, expect to see the Red Storm in Nike uniforms and apparel in this season as well as an increase in Nike merchandise on the official online store and campus bookstore at St. John’s.

TORCH PHOTO/AMANDA NEGRETTI

St. John’s has a rich basketball history, as the sport is a way of life in the city in which the Red Storm call their home. history. Deciding which teams have been the best in St. John’s history is no easy task as both programs have seen a into account when deciding this. Although you may have your own top five, it is hard to argue that these ten teams

MEN’S The St. John’s Men’s Basketball team of 1978-79’s improbable run to the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament is one that still lives in the minds of fans today.

The Johnnies defeated No.1 ranked Duke at Madison Square Garden in late December of that year, with a Lou Carnesecca roster that included current Iona University head coach Tim Cluess. Heading into the NCAA Tournament, the Johnnies were ranked No. 17 in the nation as they marched their way to the Elite Eight, defeating Temple, Duke and Rutgers before being upset to Penn by two in the Elite Eight.

The 1951-52 St. John’s team certainly deserves a spot in history, since they were the only St. John’s basketball team to make it to the national championship game.

Coached by Frank McGuire and featuring a roster that included Solly Walker and Bob Zawoluk, the Red storm quickly rose to No.1 in the nation after going 5-0 to start the season. The Johnnies, would go 22-3 in the regular season. In the NCAA Tournament, the Johnnies would get their revenge on Kentucky, defeating them in the second round. In the national championship game, they played Kansas, coached by legendary head coach Phog Allen and a roster that featured Dean Smith, who would go on to have a legendary coaching career at the University of North Carolina. Although the Johnnies lost in the national championship, they still live on today as the only team to make it that far in St. John’s history.

The 1990-91 Johnnies were ranked at No.25 to start the season, the Johnnies lived up to that expectation.

In early December, the Johnnies, who were then ranked No.17 in the nation, defeated No.20 Georgia Tech at the ACC-Big East Challenge. The Johnnies marched their way to the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament as the No.4 seed in the Midwest Region, defeating Northern Illinois,Texas and Ohio State before falling to Duke in the Elite Eight.

Led by Ron Artest and Bootsy Thornton and Erick Barkley and coached by first-year head coach Mike Jarvis, the Red Storm were ranked as high as No.8 in the nation that season, knocking off No.17 Syracuse and No.20 Pittsburgh. The Red Storm fell into Connecticut in the Big East Tournament championship game, however, they would rock their way to the Elite Eight, defeating Samford, Indiana and Maryland, before losing to Ohio State.

The 1984-85 Johnnies may have been the most talented roster in St. John’s history. Coached by Lou Carnesecca, the Johnnies roster featured Chris Mullin, Mark Jackson, Bill Wennington and Walter Berry. The Johnnies were ranked No.3 in the nation at the start of the season and were ranked No.1 in the nation for the majority of Big East play. At the end of the regular season, the Johnnies were 25-2 and went an astonishing 15-1 in Big East play, their only loss coming at the hands of Georgetown, whom they’d also lose to in the championship game of the Big East Tournament. The Johnnies would make it to the Final Four of the NCAA Tournament, beating Southern University, Arkansas, Kentucky and North Carolina State before falling to Georgetown once again.

Both men’s and women’s basketball teams have seen their fair share of lows and highs throughout their storied lot of success. Some may find sentimental value in certain teams as well which is something that is hard to take haven’t cemented their status in school history.

WOMEN’S The 1983-84 St. John’s Women’s basketball team was the second team in program history to capture a Big East Tournament title. Led by head coach Don Perreli, the Johnnies had a 24-6 record and went on a 16 game winning streak and were ranked No.15 in the nation at one point. In the Big East Tournament, which was held at St. John’s, the Johnnies defeated Seton Hall to capture their second consecutive Big East Tournament title.

The Johnnies made it to the NCAA Tournament that season, however, they lost in the first round to North Carolina in overtime.

The 1982-83 Johnnies were the first team to capture a Big East Tournament Championship in program history. Going 7-1 in Big East play and 27-6 overall on the season, the Johnnies marched their way through to the Big East Tournament title game, defeating Seton Hall, Georgetown and Providence. The Johnnies made it to the NCAA Tournament that season but lost in the first round to Old Dominion.

The Red Storm, led by Danaejah Grant, went 23-10 in 2015-16. In the early stages of non-conference play, the Red Storm road an impressive eight-game winning streak which included a win against No.18/17 UCF. The Red Storm would go on to capture their fourth Big East Tournament title, defeating Georgetown, DePaul and Creighton. In the NCAA Tournament, the Red Storm would lose in the first round to Auburn.

Capturing the program’s third Big East Tournament title, the 1987-88 Johnnies had a strong core of players.

They were led by Sabrina Johnson who averaged 15.3 points per game and led the team in assists. The Johnnies made it to the Big East Tournament championship game, defeating Providence and Pittsburgh in the first and second rounds. They faced off against Syracuse in the championship game and narrowly beat the Orange 74-72 in overtime. The Johnnies made it to the second round of the NCAA Tournament that season, falling to Virginia.

The 2011-12 Red Storm are the only team in program history to make it all the way to the Sweet Sixteen of the NCAA Tournament. Led by head coach Kim Barnes Arico, the Red Storm went 24-10 on the season and were 13-3 in Big East play. The Red Storm stormed through the NCAA Tournament, defeating Creighton and Oklahoma before falling to Duke in the Sweet 16.

32 | COURTSIDE

torchonline.com

STAYING IN A NEW YORK GROOVE

Small forward Julian Champagnie isn’t too far from home THOMAS CAVANAGH Staff Writer

New York City has been a hotbed for great basketball talent for ages now, and St. John’s has always tried to keep a pulse on this ever-flowing pipeline of talent.

When Mike Anderson was hired as the new head coach for the men’s basketball team back in April, he knew he needed to make an immediate impact on the local recruiting scene. Not only did he need to find players that can play in his frenetic defensive system, but he also needed to find a local product who loves the Big Apple and wants to continue playing in the city.

Enter Julian Champagnie, a 6-foot-8-inch small forward from Bishop Loughlin High School on the north side of Brooklyn. During his four years at Bishop Loughlin, he was among the city’s best players in one of the toughest high school leagues in country, going as far as making the All-Catholic High School Athletic Association “AA” First Team in his senior year. After receiving an offer from St. John’s, the idea of staying home to play basketball was enticing.

“Being able to play in this city, in front of my parents every night, it means a lot to me,” said Champagnie at media day.

His family already had connections to St. John’s well before he caught the attention of the Johnnies.

His father, Ranford, played for the St. John’s men’s soccer team in the mid-90s, and was a member of the 1996 team that won the NCAA national championship.

Champagnie did not make this decision without some conflicting interests.

Over the years of developing as a basketball player, he has always played in tow with his twin brother, Justin.

Between playing alongside him at Bishop Loughlin and on the same AAU team, it was a difficult decision to split up with him and commit to St. John’s over playing with his brother once again, who committed to Pittsburgh before Julian made his college decision.

“I miss my brother, but I kind of felt like it was our time to go our separate ways and go down our own paths,”

said Champagnie at media day.

Between all the Division I talent that is ubiquitous throughout the five boroughs of New York City, coach Mike Anderson was able to recruit a player who fit his defensive style to a tee.

“He’s got good basketball IQ, he’s got good length, he can attack the rim, he can score, he’s a very good rebounder,” said Anderson at media day, “…and the thing I love about him is especially when you press the team, he can protect that rim.”

Even though he is only a freshman who will be joining a team with plenty of depth on the wings, Champagnie will be given a substantial role right away and Anderson expects plenty out of the Brooklyn native.

“He’s a freshman, but we’re going to ask a lot out of him as a freshman, and I think that can only help him in his development. He’s definitely capable of putting the work in.”

Mike Anderson’s high-octane practices haven’t intimidated Champagnie, in fact, he almost relishes in these brutal practices.

“Practice is definitely hard, but our love for the game takes over when we get tired. We are definitely focused on defense, and it’s going to make some tiring stretches of play in a different system seem normal to us,” says Champagnie, “I love Mike [Anderson]’s style that allow us to run a lot, shoot a lot, and attack the basket.”

One of the biggest draws for a St. John’s recruit is the ability to play at Madison Square Garden on a regular basis and grace the same floor that some of basketball’s greatest legends have played on.

While Champagnie and the Johnnies won’t play their first game at the Garden until December 7th when they take on West Virginia, he is still very excited about the prospects of playing at the illustrious arena.

“There’s no other place like it, every kid who grew up in the city dreams about playing in front of 20,000 people at the Garden, and I can’t wait to step on that court and play.”

TORCH PHOTO/SPENCER CLINTON

“

34 | COURTSIDE

torchonline.com

Q ADASHAH HOPPIE Preparing for upperclassman responsibility entering season NICK MCCREVEN Staff Writer Coming out of high school, Qadashah Hoppie was a highly touted recruit from one of the most prestigious basketball schools in the country. She made it to the McDonald’s All-American Game after a stellar senior season at The Patrick School in Hillside, New Jersey.

With her resume, Hoppie had a lot of options when deciding where to take her collegiate career. She ultimately decided on St. John’s, staying close to home and representing her city.

The Staten Island native is now heading into her third year as a Johnny and has not looked back on her decision.

“It feels great honestly to be able to represent the place you’re from and you don’t have to go all the way to another state to play and make a name for yourself.

So, it’s good to put New York further on the map than it already is. It’s just great to be home and just do my best,” she told the Torch on media day.

Qadashah showed a natural comfort at home from the very start. In her first game for St. John’s back in 2017, she put up 16 points, good for the best freshman debut since 2009.

Q, as her teammates call her, went on to be named, “2018 Big East Freshman of the Year,” unanimously selected to the All-Big East Freshman Team. Q was also recognized as player on the 2018 All-Met Second Team and 2019 All-Met Third team.

She led the team with a scoring of 11.6 points per game last season. With that impressive track record already in tow as a junior, Hoppie will now step into a veteran leader role for Coach Joe Tartamella’s Red Storm and usher in the second half of her career, where she’ll undoubtedly build upon that track record.

Q knows her responsibility grows with the departure of two key mainstays, Akina Wellere and Curteeona Brelove. Despite leading the team in scoring last season, she’ll likely take on an even greater offensive role, especially when her team needs a bucket. This year’s squad is much deeper than last season, but will be missing consistent scoring from Wellere and Brelove, which will need to be filled in.

The responsibility of scoring will fall on other upperclassmen like Tiana England, Shamachya Duncan and TORCH PHOTO/AMANDA NEGRETTI

torchonline.com

COURTSIDE | 35

PHOTO PHOTO/SPENCER CLINTON

Alisha Kebbe, but the opportunity is primed for Hoppie to take the next step.

However, more importantly, Q will be a mentor and tone setter for the freshmen who are getting their first taste of the collegiate game.

Through her experience around the team and on the court in Coach Tartamella’s system, she now has a lot to lend to the younger players.

“Definitely I would say the leadership role has kind of shifted. Now that I’m an upperclassman, I’m getting older and I kind of have to be a leader to the younger kids coming in,” Q said. “Just be an example that you want to set everyday and come out and tell everybody to go hard everyday and have a good consistency on our team,” she told the Torch.

Q stressed consistency quite often on media day, and that sentiment was echoed by Coach Tartamella as well.

In order to build a strong and stable team culture, they want to take it day by day. They don’t want to get too caught up in expectations or aim for knocking anything out of the park. Q and her teammates want to remain steady together and simply try to be their best selves.

That approach is part of what made her so comfortable

to begin with., “This staff I’m in love with almost, because from the jump they have not tried to change me at all. I’ve been able to come in and basically play my game and fine tune it, make it better obviously but I always had my frame or whatever you would call it. So it’s just been great playing here. They give me so much confidence every day to shoot the ball and do all of these things, so it’s a great staff to play for.”

That unchanging, reliable approach to playing her own game has allowed Q to flourish in the flow of the game, rather than the coaching staff trying to force her into one specific role. She expressed her true and honest appreciation for the coaching staff, something that isn’t the easiest thing to find in college athletics. Through that trust, she wants to ensure her younger teammates feel that same team culture of allowing each player to play within their own game.

The Red Storm want to have a bounce-back year from 2018-19, when they straddled just below the .500 mark.

Qadashah Hoppie’s performance, in what could be a watershed junior season, will presumably weigh heavily in the team’s eventual season results.

36 | COURTSIDE

torchonline.com

CHANGING LANES

O’Connell switches from Lacrosse to Basketball SEAN OKULA Staff Writer Time is greedy. It takes until there is nothing left to take, and the only way to cheat it is to trick it. Very rarely we are offered the chance to go back, a chance to recapture the glory of the past.

“When I found out I had another year of eligibility, and I knew I was coming home to grad school,” lacrosse defector Thomas O’Connell tells the Torch. “I was like, why not?”

O’Connell didn’t think he would return to basketball.

He said as much during his senior year of high school, at that point presumably the last time he would play the sport competitively.

“I always loved basketball, but lacrosse provided me that opportunity,” he says. “I always kind of had it in the back of my mind, maybe I should have stuck with basketball. But I wouldn’t trade my lacrosse experience for anything.”

Maryland came calling during his sophomore year of high school. By that summer, he had committed to play lacrosse in College Park. He played out his high school career at Chaminade, where he excelled in both basketball and football, before turning his focus to the Terps.

“I’d be lying if I said I didn’t want him to play the sport I’m most involved with,” Chaminade basketball coach Robert Paul said. “But at the end of the day, I want what’s best for his success.”

“The opportunities at UMD were unique in that they were at a high level athletically and academically,” Paul added.

O’Connell played in 13 games for a national championship team in 2017. He was named captain for his senior year after having spent the summer representing Puerto Rico at the World Championships.

Lacrosse provided opportunity, but basketball was his first passion. He only picked up the stick in seventh grade because he thought baseball was “boring.” The recruitment process moved so quickly that it gave him little time to consider Division II and Ivy League basket-

TORCH PHOTO/SPENCER CLINTON

ball offers.

Yet, in the summer he kept up with his game. He was a regular at the Chaminade gym in the early hours of the morning, putting up shots just to stay sharp.

Coach Paul said he would work as a counselor at youth basketball camps. Even when school started again, he made time for hoops.“We had this thing called ‘fall-ball’ in lacrosse,” O’Connell says. “Once that was over, I’d get a bunch of my teammates and we’d play pick-up whenever we could.”

“I always tried to keep a ball in my hands,” he adds.

This past summer, O’Connell worked out with the St. John’s team as he tried to earn a spot for this season.

There was rust to work through, but the similarities be-

COURTSIDE | 37

torchonline.com

“

THE BIGGER THE GAME, THE BETTER HE WAS.

ROBERT PAUL

tween lacrosse and basketball mitigated it to a point.

“They’re the same movements, the pick-and-roll, when guys are doing help defense, sliding,” O’Connell said. “Steve Nash is my favorite point guard, so I’m big on passing and keeping my head up and sharing the ball.”

Coach Mike Anderson says, “He’s got a basketball IQ … He’s an instinctive player and he loves basketball.”

While the capacity of his role remains to be seen, what’s clear is the energy O’Connell will bring if his name is called. Tip-Off was a showcase for his groove, and more than that a chance to bask in what has been a dream realized.

“Growing up I was watching St. John’s,” he says. “I used to be a ball boy and I came to all of the games.

Both my parents actually went to St. John’s and my mom played softball.

“It’s kind of in my blood. You see all the fans, and you’re just like...wow,” he adds.

Adapting to his surroundings is clearly not an issue.

But it’s also not the first time O’Connell has tested his basketball limits.

Chaminade enforces what’s usually a strict no-underclassmen rule for their varsity sports teams.

In his first year as the head basketball coach, Robert Paul saw something special in O’Connell and chose him for the varsity team as a sophomore.

In what could have been a simple apprenticeship, a chance to groom the next generation, O’Connell thrived.

TORCH PHOTO/AMANDA NEGRETTI

He cracked a spot in the regular rotation and helped the team all the way to an NSCHSAA championship and a trip to the state semi-finals.

“It was like a rookie coming up with the ‘98 or ‘99 Yankee teams and contributing right away,” Paul said.

“There are few kids that have not only the physical, but the mental and emotional skills to step up and play with that connected a group of students.”

“The bigger the game, the better he was.”

38 | COURTSIDE

torchonline.com

MEN’S TRANSFERS LOOK TO BRING TOUGHNESS

NICK MCCREVEN Staff Writer Despite an NCAA Tournament appearance, last year’s Men’s team had grown frustrated, worn out, and at times overmatched by the time March rolled around.

The fit amongst the talented roster didn’t consistently make sense on the court. Shamorie Ponds’ departure in pursuit of an NBA job felt like it was approaching the horizon and players became discontent with playing time. Change was needed and so it came to fruition over the summer, beginning with Hall of Fame alumnus Coach Chris Mullin stepping down from his position.

With a new coaching staff coming in and Justin Simon joining Ponds in his leap to the NBA, significant role players like Bryan Trimble, Sedee Keita, and Eli Wright transferred in search of a different opportunity. The Johnnies were expecting a class of freshmen but now needed a veteran presence.

Help came in the form of three seasoned transfers over the summer.

Rasheem Dunn, a Brooklyn native who shared the court with Shamorie Ponds back in high school, came in from Cleveland State where NCAA transfer rules kept him out his entire season following a transfer from St. TORCHPHOTO/SPENCER CLINTON

RASHEEM DUNN

Francis Brooklyn. Dunn currently will not be able to play this season but is awaiting the results of a waiver request which, if granted, would make him immediately eligible.

Nick Rutherford arrived as a graduate who began his college career with Florida Atlantic and transferred to Monmouth where he spent two years but only played one.

And finally, a unique path led Damien Sears to Queens.

Sears spent two seasons at Jacksonville University but suffered a torn ACL. He spent a year in junior college at Western Oklahoma State during his recovery and he flourished. Now he will return to NCAA Division I with his head high.

Each one of them brings something unique to the roster and fills a hole of need after the departure of so many key players from last year.

Dating back to high school, Dunn has been a natural scorer and playmaker. Not a stranger to the bright lights, the guard was named Co-MVP of the PSAL championship at Madison Square Garden, where he dropped 23 points alongside Ponds.

“A lot of memorable moments in there. Made history in there. Playing in MSG is every kid’s dream. So, for TORCHPHOTO/SPENCER CLINTON

NICK RUTHERFORD

COURTSIDE | 39

torchonline.com me to go back there where we won our high school city championship and playing there again, it’s great especially playing in my hometown in front of all my loved ones supporting me,” Dunn said of his return to the Garden.

His freshman year at St. Francis, he averaged 13.1 points per game to lead the team in scoring, then followed it up in his sophomore campaign by bumping that up to 15.4 per game. He also led the team both years in steals and rebounding at only 6’2”.

After an entire season sitting out at Cleveland State, Dunn is eager to get back onto the court to prove himself again. When asked if he had extra motivation to get back on the court he said, “I actually do. At Cleveland State, it was kind of hard for me. With this whole process going on, I’m still trying to continue to be the best version of myself, not getting in the way of the NCAA or stuff like that. It’s about being patient. I feel like life is all about patience and not thinking of emotions but thinking of your circumstances. So, I just let the NCAA do their job and leave everything in God’s hands.”

With John McGriff’s preseason injury that likely rules him out for the year, Dunn being granted that waiver he is patiently waiting for becomes all the more important.

He could immediately bring versatility and scoring at a guard spot that has become even thinner due to McGriff’s injury.

Whether or not Dunn is granted eligibility, Nick Ruth-

erford will likely be seeing plenty of minutes in the backcourt this season. Born in Indianapolis and attending Allen High School in Texas, Rutherford made his way through his collegiate career as a defensive stalwart. He led FAU in steals in both 2016 and 2017, and it carried over to his time at Monmouth after his redshirt year.

He averaged 1.7 steals last season en route to a MAAC Tournament title game.

Rutherford’s stingy defense could make life much easier for presumed leading scorer Mustapha Heron, as Rutherford will likely guard the tougher assignment on the opposing offense.

When asked about his envisioned role for the Red Storm, the graduate guard said, “I think my biggest strength is going to be my defense. Just wreaking havoc on defense and being the leader, the floor general, getting guys the ball, and just being an overall player and competitor trying to win games.”

Damien Sears, meanwhile, is primed to take up part of the minutes and a similar role lost from Marvin Clark’s departure last season. With Ian Steere out until roughly halfway through the season, Sears will have to lock down the interior by bringing a physical nature. wAt 6-feet-7-inches he is a natural forward but due to the thin frontcourt, he may be seeing time at the center position. What he’ll lack in height in matchups with opposing centers, he will have to make up for in utilizing mismatches and toughness.

TORCHPHOTO/NICK BELLO

DAMIEN SEARS

St. John’s Women’s Basketball Schedule 2019-2020 11/15/19 St. Bonaventure 11/13/19 Lafayette 11/17/19 James Madison 11/22/19 Wake Forest 11/25/19 University of Mass.

St. Bonaventure, N.Y (Reilly Center) 5:00 PM Queens, N.Y. (Carnesecca Arena) 7:00 PM Harrisonburg, VA. (Convocation Center) 2:00 PM Queens, N.Y. (Carnesecca Arena) 2:00PM Queens, N.Y (Carnesecca Arena) 7:00 PM

LADY REBEL ROUND-UP 11/30/19 IUPUI 12/01/19 Consolation Game 12/01/19 Championship Game 12/06/19 12/09/19 12/15/19 12/20/19 12/29/19 12/31/19 01/03/20 01/05/20 01/10/20 01/12/20 01/17/20 01/19/20 01/26/20 01/31/20 02/02/20 02/07/20 02/09/20 02/14/20 02/16/20 02/22/20 02/28/20 03/01/20

Yale Army Florida State Fairfield Xavier Butler Georgetown Villanova Marquette DePaul Providence Creighton Seton Hall Villanova Georgetown DePaul Marquette Creighton Providence Seton Hall Butler Xavier

Las.Vegas, NEV. (Cox Pavilion) Las.Vegas, NEV. (Cox Pavilion) Las. Vegas NEV. (Cox Pavilion)

5:30PM TBA TBA

New Haven, Conn. (Lee Amphitheater) 7:00 PM Queens, N.Y. (Carnesecca Arena) 7:00 PM Tallahassee, FL. (Donald L. Tucker Center)2:00 PM Queens, N.Y. (Carnesecca Arena) TBA Cincinnati, Ohio (Cintas Center) 2:00 PM Indianapolis, IND. (Hinkle Fieldhouse) 4:00 PM Queens, N.Y. (Carnesecca Arena) 7:00 PM Queens, N.Y (Carnesecca Arena) 2:00 PM Milwaukee, WIS. (Al McGuire Center) 8:00 PM Chicago, ILL. (McGrath-Phillips Arena) 1:00 PM Queens, N.Y. (Carnesecca Arena) 11:00 AM Queens, N.Y. (Carnesecca Arena) 2:00 PM South Orange, N.J. (Walsh Gymnasium) 6:30 PM Villanova, PA. (Finneran Pavilion) 7:00 PM Washington, D.C (McDonough Arena) 2:00 PM Queens, N.Y. (Carnesecca Arena) 7:00 PM Queens, N.Y. (Carnesecca Arena) 2:00 PM Omaha, NEB. (D.J. Sokol Arena) 7:00 PM Providence, R.I. (Alumni Hall) 1:00 PM Queens, N.Y. (Carnesecca Arena) 2:00PM Queens, N.Y. (Carnesecca Arena) 7:00 PM Queens, N.Y. (Carnesecca Arena) 4:00 PM

TORCH PHOTO AND DESIGN/SPENCER CLINTON