The stands were filled to the brim, St. John’s Red Storm fans who were hoping that a strong non-conference record of 10-2 would mean a strong start against the Providence Friars at home. The Friars had some some struggles, and this was a game the Johnnies wanted for a good start to Big East play with two ranked teams to come.
Those excited fans who came in early got to observe the warmups before the game. Those fans noted that while St. John’s guards were inconsistent from out deep, Friars Alpha Diallo and Kyron Cartwright were smoothly consistent.