Rick Pitino expressed his frustration with his team after St. John’s suffered a defeat against Seton Hall. Pitino, who is in his inaugural season with the Red Storm, has faced numerous challenges. St. John’s currently holds a mediocre 14-12 record overall, with a disappointing 6-9 performance in Big East games. To make matters worse, the team has lost eight of their last ten games, including the recent setback against Seton Hall.
The Red Storm’s performance has deteriorated to a point where Pitino appears ready to give up. In a passionate outburst, he criticized the team’s lack of athleticism and their inability to defend without fouling. Pitino admitted that this first year has been far from enjoyable, describing it as the most disappointing experience of his lifetime. His frustration was evident as he expressed his disappointment after the 68-62 loss to Seton Hall.
Pitino’s frustration didn’t stop there. In a rare move, he called out specific players by name, highlighting their shortcomings on the court. His brutal assessment of the team’s performance was a stark reminder of the challenges they face. Pitino’s fiery criticism of Joel Soriano, Chris Ledlum, Sean Conway, Brady, and Drissa showcased his passion for the game.
This level of energy and passion from coaches is what we need to see more of in sports. Pitino’s no-nonsense approach contrasts with the lackluster performances exhibited by other coaches, such as John Calipari. While Calipari urged the media to leave his players alone, Pitino embraced the opportunity to hold his team accountable. He didn’t shy away from bluntly criticizing his own roster, demonstrating the spirit and attitude that should be encouraged in sports.
Rick Pitino’s dissatisfaction with the state of St. John’s basketball is evident. His fiery remarks and unwavering determination are a testament to his commitment to the game. Pitino’s refusal to conform to the status quo should be celebrated, as it brings a refreshing perspective to the sport. Let me know your thoughts on his comments at David.Hookstead@
According to the Source outkick.com