Following a recent disciplinary issue, Deivon Smith, a key player for St. John’s, was benched for the game against Harvard. Coach Rick Pitino made it clear that Smith’s return to the court would be determined by his teammates, emphasizing the importance of team chemistry and unity.
Smith, who had a conflict with Pitino during the previous game against Georgia, was assigned to individual training and weightlifting sessions as part of his punishment. Pitino reiterated that his decision was aimed at teaching the players about the values of selflessness and support for each other, which are essential for the team’s success.
In Smith’s absence, Jaiden Glover stepped up and delivered an impressive performance against Harvard. The Brooklyn native played a career-high 18:56 minutes, scoring 11 points and making a memorable buzzer-beater shot at halftime. This opportunity allowed Glover to showcase his skills and contribute significantly to the team’s victory.
Moving forward, Pitino stressed the importance of instilling the principles of teamwork and camaraderie in every player, regardless of their individual performance on the court. As the Red Storm prepares for upcoming games, the focus remains on fostering a cohesive and supportive team environment that will lead to success on and off the court.