St. John’s Upset by No. 15 Alabama in Season-Opening Loss
In an intense season opener, St. John’s faced a surprising defeat against No. 15 Alabama on November 8, 2025. The Crimson Tide triumphed with a final score of 103-96 at Madison Square Garden, showcasing their depth and skill.
Game Summary
St. John’s entered the game ranked fifth but struggled against Alabama’s dynamic offense. The Crimson Tide outperformed the Johnnies in several key areas, sealing their victory with a late 14-1 run.
Key Players
- Zuby Ejiofor: Led St. John’s with 27 points and secured 10 rebounds, though he scored 21 points in the first half alone.
- Bryce Hopkins: Contributed 19 points to the team effort.
- Labaron Philon and Aden Holloway: Combined for 46 points, significantly impacting Alabama’s offense.
First Half Highlights
Alabama took control early, finishing the first half with 53 points, the most allowed by a St. John’s team under coach Rick Pitino. The Crimson Tide capitalized on their size advantage in the paint, outscoring the Johnnies 54-40.
Despite trailing by nine points at halftime, St. John’s showed resilience. They had a brief moment of momentum with a 19-7 run, giving them a lead for the first time. However, Alabama quickly regained control, extending their lead with effective shooting.
Second Half Dynamics
St. John’s initially closed the gap to two points, but Alabama responded decisively. The Tide scored nine unanswered points, establishing a commanding 11-point lead.
Statistical Overview
| Stat Category | St. John’s | Alabama |
|---|---|---|
| Total Points | 96 | 103 |
| Pain Scoring | 40 | 54 |
| 3-Point Scoring | -15 | 21 |
| Offensive Rebounds | 14 | 19 |
St. John’s had its weaknesses exposed, particularly against Alabama’s skilled backcourt. The Johnnies allowed several open three-point opportunities, which ultimately contributed to the game’s outcome.
Upcoming Expectations
As they regroup from this loss, St. John’s will look to address their defensive lapses ahead of their next game. Coach Pitino will need to refine strategies to maximize their performance moving forward this season.
