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COURTSIDE: Bright Lights, Big Expectations

The bright lights, the history and the expectations. Simply put, there’s no greater challenge than playing in New York City. Certain athletes are built for the moment and can handle the pressure.

St. John’s has embraced their image as New York’s Team, and so have their hometown athletes. Junior guard Shamorie Ponds says the only thing he feels is pride.

“I don’t think there’s any pressure,” Ponds said. “I just go out there and play my game. I don’t think there’s any added pressure at all.” Ponds has a quiet confidence.

The Brooklyn native played at Thomas Jefferson High School and led the team to its first New York City title since 1954.