Dylan Darling’s Late Surge Drives St. John’s Victory

Bassyonni

Published: February 7, 2026 2:59 PM ET

Dylan Darling’s Late Surge Drives St. John’s Victory

In a thrilling encounter, St. John’s University secured an impressive victory against third-ranked UConn on February 6, 2026. The Red Storm triumphed with a final score of 81-72 at a packed Madison Square Garden.

Dylan Darling: Key Player in St. John’s Victory

Dylan Darling emerged as the standout player in this highly anticipated matchup. The backup point guard has consistently demonstrated his ability to shine in critical moments. His late-game prowess was evident as he scored all nine of his points in the second half, creating crucial plays that helped solidify St. John’s lead.

Crucial Plays Down the Stretch

With just over three minutes left in the game, Darling sank a stepback 3-pointer, extending St. John’s lead to five. He followed that with a pass to Zuby Ejiofor, who scored in the paint, further widening the gap. Coach Rick Pitino praised Darling’s performance, noting his determination to take control during pivotal moments.

Defensive Efforts and Turnovers

Defensively, Darling contributed significantly by helping the Red Storm force 15 turnovers from the UConn team. His defensive skills were crucial in maintaining pressure on the opposition. Connecticut’s coach, Dan Hurley, acknowledged Darling’s impact, stating that he made a “huge difference” in the game.

Game Stats and Coach Insights

Final Score: St. John’s 81, UConn 72
Date: February 6, 2026
Free Throw Attempts: St. John’s: 31, UConn: 12
Coach Win Milestone: Rick Pitino tied Roy Williams with 903 career wins.

This victory marked St. John’s third consecutive win over UConn, a first since the 1999-2000 season. Following this match, Pitino will attempt to achieve his 904th win against Xavier on Monday, February 8, 2026.

Conclusion

Dylan Darling’s performance exemplified his ability to handle high-pressure situations. His late-game heroics were crucial, reinforcing St. John’s position in the competitive landscape of college basketball. As they continue their season, the Red Storm looks poised for more success.