There are at times truths in stereotypes, perhaps lazy bits of truth but truths nonetheless and when St. John’s comes to Duke we see one come to life: the one where Duke’s rivals say everyone comes from New Jersey or New York.
Well that’s not true but a lot certainly do and there is a palpable excitement when St. John’s comes to town that doesn’t show up for any other non-conference rival.
You can spot the city kids, some of them greybeards, who have an extra spring in their step for this game. It’s kind of cool to see really.