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big east hoops

St. John’s Rolls Past Iona

by Carl Berman
written by Carl Berman

New York, NY – Heading into the matchup, St. John’s was looking to build momentum with a convincing performance before opening Big East play, and the Red Storm answered the call. Behind the hot shooting of Stanford transfer and three-point specialist Oziyah Sellers, who finished with a game-high 19 points, the Johnnies cruised to a dominant 91–64 victory over Iona. While Iona’s coaching staff had its team prepared and competitive early, it was no match for the adjustments made by Hall of Fame head coach Rick Pitino. After a lackadaisical first half, Pitino rallied his group on both ends of the floor, as St. John’s pulled away in the second half and turned a tight contest into a 27-point rout.

Sellers was brought in for his elite perimeter shooting, and the Johnnies will rely heavily on that skill if they hope to find consistent success this season. He offered a clear glimpse of his value in this one, finishing with 19 points in 31 minutes on an efficient 7-of-13 shooting performance, including 4-of-7 from beyond the arc. Beyond the numbers, the guard excels moving without the ball, consistently putting himself in position to get open. His feel for spacing and willingness to do the little things—often absent from the box score—make him a seamless fit within the offense.

Iona was once again led by senior Cincinnati transfer CJ Anthony, who provided a much-needed spark for the Gaels on both ends of the floor. The veteran guard poured in 20 points on 9-of-19 shooting, consistently putting pressure on the defense with his ability to attack the rim, absorb contact, and finish through traffic. Despite drawing significant physicality, Anthony did not earn a trip to the free-throw line, yet he continued to impose his will with his strength and downhill approach. On the defensive end, he showed no fear regardless of the matchup, competing possession by possession and holding his own against St. John’s perimeter players. Anthony’s physicality, confidence, and two-way effort should allow him to make a substantial impact for Iona as conference play approaches.

For the Johnnies to live up to their lofty expectations, they must address a glaring playmaking issue. The roster lacks a true point guard, a reality head coach Rick Pitino acknowledged this offseason when he noted that the position has become a lost art in college basketball. Early returns suggest that absence has been costly. Without a clear facilitator, St. John’s has struggled at times to fully capitalize on the intricate offensive sets Pitino installs. Still, with one of the greatest coaches in college basketball history at the helm, there is reason to believe the issue can be mitigated before Big East play begins. Without improved playmaking, however, questions remain about just how far this team can realistically advance in March.

Ultimately, St. John’s accomplished what it set out to do, delivering a convincing nonconference win that showcased both its upside and its areas for growth. The Red Storm’s shooting, defensive intensity, and coaching adjustments underscored the talent and ceiling of this roster, while individual performances like Oziyah Sellers’ efficient scoring highlighted how impactful the new pieces can be. At the same time, lingering playmaking concerns remain a storyline to monitor as Big East play approaches. If Rick Pitino can solve that puzzle, St. John’s has the tools to contend deep into the season. If not, the margin for error will narrow quickly once the competition stiffens.

This article was written by William Murphy, a correspondent and scout for NetScouts Basketball. You can follow us on Instagram, or on twitter.

We are looking for those interested in our basketball scout apprenticeship program. For information contact us and forward your resume.

UConn Tops Illinois at Madison Square Garden

by Carl Berman
written by Carl Berman

New York, NY – It was a highly anticipated matinee matchup at Madison Square Garden in the Sentinel One Showdown between No.5 UConn and No.13 Illinois in a game where we expected fireworks on the offensive end from both teams. It would ultimately be a defensive beatdown that had UConn take a wire to wire 74-61 win on Friday afternoon. UConn had solid offensive showings from key contributors Alex Karaban, Malachi Smith, and Solo Ball who would combine for 41 of their 74 points. The Huskies would also hold the Fighting Illini to well below their season average at 94.6 PPG. as Illinois’ only provider of offense today was Kylan Boswell who had 25 points.

The first half of this game was a UConn domination led by  Ball who had 13 first half points and was red hot from the field to kick off the afternoon. A key point heading into this matchup was would Illinois be able to play at their high-level pace and score effectively while also being dominant on the glass as well. Unfortunately for the Fighting Illini nothing went right, as they struggled to get stops and get out on the run, allowing UConn to shoot 46% from the field and 41% from 3 in the 1st half. They would also go on to lose the glass 21-19 while getting nothing offensively from their leading scorer Andrej Stojakovic. He had just three points at the half on 1-of-6 shooting as the team shoot 38% from the field. These factors lead to a Huskies’ 43-32 lead heading into the locker room.

The game was more tightly contested in the second half but even though Illinois tightened up defensively they continued to underperform on the offensive end. Illinois would go 6-of-26 from the field and 2-of-16 from 3 as they finished the night shooting 20.7% from 3 and 31% overall. UConn started off the second  half going up as many as 17 points, as Malachi Smith was able to make his mark on the game scoring nine points in the half finishing the afternoon with 14 points and nine assists off the bench. For Illinois their only source of offense would continue to come strictly from Boswell but their defensive effort picked up and they had the deficit reduced to seven points late in the game. They would go on to continue to misfire from long range and UConn came down with some big rebounds and buckets to finish Illinois off for their sixth win of the season. 

UConn is obviously in the conversation for being the best team in the country, but the individual talent on this roster is something that deserves praise. Two of their potential NBA draft prospects who played well today were Solo Ball and Alex Karaban. Karaban excels off shooting off the catch, he moves efficiently off the ball whether that’s coming off pin-downs or reading his defender playing him aggressively and slipping backdoor for cutting opportunities. He may not be a high-level athlete or an elite on ball creator but he provides high level spacing which is valuable for any team at the next level. Ball is more of a willing tough shot taker and shot maker. He can also move off the ball especially getting looks off screens, he gets 3’s up at a high volume and has more of an in between game compared to Karaban. Ball also is comfortable getting his shot off the dribble as he’s a more versatile scorer. Where the similarities lie are they both aren’t consistent defenders and they aren’t high level playmakers but they both have the potential to be contributors on an NBA rotation. 

As for the Fighting Illini, they have a few draft prospects as well. The two that most effected today’s game were Boswell and 6’9 forward David Mirkovic. Boswell dominated as he was able to get into the paint showing off his strong frame at just 6 ‘2 and showcased his shooting and defensive tenacity. The only question for Boswell at the next level is that he’s undersized and what level of a shooter he is? Mirkovic, although he didn’t have the greatest game, is someone that can be a productive offensive big. He isn’t by any means an elite on ball creator but he’s a really good playmaking big that has potential to effectively space the floor as well. He also is a high-level rebounder despite not being a major vertical athlete. Mirkovic has great feel for the game and he still has room to grow even more as a player as he’s just a freshman.

This article was written by Jordan Amadeo, a correspondent and scout for NetScouts Basketball. You can follow us on Instagram, or on twitter.

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Iowa State, St. John’s Cruise to Wins at Players Era Championship 

by Carl Berman
written by Carl Berman

Las Vegas, NV. – The Iowa State Cyclones and Creighton Bluejays tipped off Day two of the  Players Era Championship at Mandalay Bay. Playing without their star point guard Tamin Lipsey, who was out with a lower body injury, Iowa State was impressive and took care of Creighton 78-60. The Cyclones led 40-26 at the half and Creighton never made a serious run in the second half.

The Cyclones extended their lead in the second half helped by the play of 6’9 Joshua Jefferson. The senior finished the game with 18 points, 10 rebounds and five assists. He made a nice pass to Killyan Toure for a layup that extended the lead to 18 points. Toure, a 6’3 freshman from France by way of Brewster Academy, was active throughout and highlighted his athleticism as he led Iowa State with 20 points on 8-of-14 shooting and added four rebounds. 6’8 shooter Milan Moncilovic battled foul trouble but finished with ten points on 2-of-4 from deep. Josh Dix tried to keep Creighton in the game, connecting on three second half 3’s as he scored 15 points and added six assists.

In the second game St. John’s got off to a hot start in their game against Baylor thanks to Oziyah Sellers.  The 6’5 Stanford transfer scored 13 early points as the Red Storm raced off to a 21-6 lead. The Bears reduced their deficit for five points on several instances helped from 6’5 Cameron Carr’s 14 points. Carr continued his excellent play at the event, hitting all three of his 3’s and converting 5-of-6 shots overall. The Red Storm’s Bryce Hopkins was active throughout the half. He scored 11 points, hitting his only three-point attempt and making 4-of-6 from the field.  Baylor’s Tounde Yessoufou had problems converting, especially inside, making only 1-of-9 shots in scoring three points. Baylor had a 25-14 rebounding advantage, including 17-3 on the offensive bords but didn’t really take advantage of that, with only a 12-7 edge in second chance points.

St. John’s came out strong and scored the first eight points of the second half, expanding their lead to 17 points. Yessoufou (15 points, 5-17 FG) tried to get the Bears going with two driving layups and a three-pointer but it was too little, too late. The Red Storm maintained a double-digit lead and cruised to a 96-81 win. Carr led the Bears with 25 points on 5-of-7 from deep.

Bryce Hopkins has been injured much of the past few seasons and seems to be hitting his stride. He finished with 26 points, hitting 3-of-6 3’s and added five rebounds and five assists. Sellers had 22 points on 5-of-7 from deep while Dillon Mitchell added 18 points, shooting 8-of-10 along with a team-high six assists. The Red Storm had an extremely efficient offensive game, shooting 57.4% from the field including 11-of-22 on three-pointers.

This article was written by Carl Berman, Managing Partner of NetScouts Basketball. You can follow us on Instagram, or on twitter.

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Seton Hall Romps Over New Haven 

by Carl Berman
written by Carl Berman

Newark, N.J. – Seton Hall was looking to head into the Maui Invitational with a dominant, confidence-boosting win over New Haven — and they delivered exactly that. From the opening tip, Coach Shaheen Holloway orchestrated a sharp, disciplined game plan, featuring well-timed sets and cohesive ball movement that kept New Haven on its heels. Stephon Payne and TJ Simpkins played pivotal roles, providing steady production and energy that sparked runs on both ends of the floor. Their impact, combined with the team’s overall defensive intensity, allowed Seton Hall to control the pace and dictate the flow throughout the night. In the end, the Pirates’ complete team effort paved the way for a convincing 68–45 victory, sending them to Maui with momentum and a clearer sense of identity.

Stephon Payne delivered his best performance yet in a Seton Hall uniform, recording his first double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds on an efficient 6-of-8 shooting. He was heavily featured early in the Pirates’ game plan, consistently high-pointing entry passes and finishing above the defense for easy baskets. Payne completely controlled the glass, pulling down nearly everything in his area and preventing New Haven from generating second-chance opportunities. Defensively, he anchored Seton Hall’s pick-and-roll coverage, stepping up to contain ball handlers, allowing teammates to recover, and rotating back in time to deny clean passes to the roller. From start to finish, Payne played a pivotal role in the Pirates’ dominance and was a driving force behind their convincing win.

Another major difference-maker in the Pirates’ dominant win was Elon transfer TJ Simpkins, who delivered his best performance yet in a Seton Hall uniform. In 27 highly impactful minutes, Simpkins poured in 18 points on an ultra-efficient 6-of-8 from the field, including a scorching 4-of-5 from beyond the arc. From the moment he stepped on the floor, he played with complete command, taking whatever the defense gave him and punishing every lapse. He knocked down both open and heavily contested threes, attacked downhill with purpose, and showed the ability to finish through contact at the rim. On the defensive end, Simpkins continued to make his presence felt. He added a steal and a block, but his impact extended far beyond the box score. His closeouts were disciplined and disruptive, and he consistently slid his feet to stay in front of ball handlers, preventing penetration and forcing tougher shots. His energy, poise, and two-way production gave Seton Hall a significant boost whenever he was on the floor. Simpkins’ 18-point outburst was one of the clearest signs yet of how valuable he can be to this Pirates team moving forward—and fans are hopeful that this level of play becomes a staple of his impact throughout the season.

Before heading to Maui to face NC State in their first game on Monday, one area that clearly needs tightening is Seton Hall’s perimeter defense. The Pirates currently rank 326th out of 365 Division I teams in opponent three-point percentage, allowing opponents to shoot a concerning 38.1% from deep. And while New Haven finished just 29% from beyond the arc tonight, many of those attempts were uncontested or lightly challenged.

Against a high-level offensive team like NC State, those types of lapses will be punished. The Wolfpack have multiple shooters who thrive on rhythm looks and giving them clean catch-and-shoot opportunities will make coming away with a win significantly more difficult. Even on contested attempts, Seton Hall’s closeouts lacked urgency — defenders often raised a hand without elevating or fully committing to disrupting the shot. The good news for the Pirates is that this is a correctable issue, and given Shaheen Holloway’s emphasis on defensive toughness, there’s every reason to believe the staff will address it before the trip. But if Seton Hall wants to compete in Maui, cleaning up their perimeter contests will be a must.

Overall, Seton Hall’s performance against New Haven was exactly the kind of complete showing they needed before heading into one of the nation’s toughest early-season tournaments. With standout performances from Payne and Simpkins, improved ball movement, and strong interior defense, the Pirates showcased the potential of a team that is beginning to find its rhythm. Still, the upcoming matchup against NC State will demand sharper discipline on the perimeter and a full 40-minute effort. If Holloway’s group can build on the momentum from tonight while addressing their defensive lapses, Seton Hall will head into the Maui Invitational not just confident, but fully capable of making some noise on the national stage.

This article was written by William Murphy, a correspondent and scout for NetScouts Basketball. You can follow us on Instagram, or on twitter.

We are looking for those interested in our basketball scout apprenticeship program. For information contact us and forward your resume.

Seton Hall Outlasts Monmouth

by Carl Berman
written by Carl Berman

Newark, N.J. – What began as a frustrating night for Seton Hall quickly turned into a test of resilience. The Pirates struggled mightily in the first half, failing to generate quality looks and struggling to move the ball with any rhythm. Their offense stagnated, their spacing faltered, and they went into the locker room facing a 7-point deficit. Meanwhile, Monmouth capitalized on the sluggish start, shooting the ball efficiently and controlling the pace through the opening 20 minutes.

But the second half told a completely different story. Seton Hall came out with renewed energy, tightening up defensively, pushing the tempo, and finally finding flow within their offense. The Pirates chipped away possession by possession, eventually overtaking the Hawks and completing an impressive comeback. Behind a combination of improved ball movement, defensive pressure, and tougher shot-making, Seton Hall outscored Monmouth by double digits in the final frame to secure a 70–58 victory and avoid what could have been a costly early-season stumble.

It was more of the same from the Pirates’ emerging breakout freshman, Najai Hines. With starting big man Stephon Payne sidelined early due to foul trouble, Hines was called upon to stabilize the interior and prevent Seton Hall from slipping into a deeper deficit — and he delivered. Though he struggled early with a few short-range finishes, he settled in during the second half and made his presence felt on both ends of the floor. Hines finished with a strong all-around stat line of 7 points, 8 rebounds, and an impressive 7 blocks.

His defensive impact completely changed the tone of the game. Hines protected the rim at an elite level, erasing shots, deterring drives, and giving the Pirates the ability to push the ball in transition. His ability to anchor the defense not only slowed Monmouth’s momentum but also created easy opportunities for Seton Hall’s guards on the other end.

Throughout the game, two players kept Monmouth within striking distance: freshman Stefanos Spartalis and senior sharpshooter Jack Collins. Spartalis refused to back down from the moment, battling physically in the post against both Payne and Hines. His aggressiveness was a major reason Payne found himself in early foul trouble. Spartalis finished with an impressive 16 points on 3-of-6 shooting while going 9-of-10 from the free-throw line, showcasing poise and toughness well beyond his years.

As for Collins, he was the focal point of Seton Hall’s defensive game plan — and for good reason. Despite shooting just 31.5% from three last season, he attempted 165 threes, demonstrating his confidence and willingness to let it fly from deep. That confidence carried into tonight, as Collins opened the game by knocking down three of his first five attempts from beyond the arc. He entered halftime with 11 points and had the Pirates scrambling, taking advantage of defensive lapses, missed switches, and second-chance opportunities that left him wide open far too often.

One of the guards who piggy backed off of Hines’ dominant performance was Elon transfer TJ Simpkins. As the first man off the bench, Simpkins delivered exactly what the Pirates needed, finishing with 14 points and 8 rebounds — including 4 huge offensive boards. He provided a much-needed spark offensively, knocking down two timely threes that helped ignite a few Seton Hall runs.

Simpkins also showcased his ball-handling and composure. With Trey Parker struggling to create space for himself in outlet opportunities in transition during his minutes, Simpkins stepped in as the primary guard and brought the ball up the floor with pace and control. He facilitated the offense effectively, kept the team organized, and limited mistakes in key moments. In my eyes, Simpkins is a true X-factor for this Pirates squad — a capable scorer who can swing momentum instantly while also bringing consistent effort and toughness on the defensive end.

Seton Hall’s comeback victory over Monmouth served as an early reminder of this team’s potential when effort, discipline, and resilience come together. What began as a sluggish, error-filled first half transformed into a confident, physically imposing second-half performance powered by emerging contributors like Hines and Simpkins. The Pirates showed they can win even when their best basketball isn’t there from the start — a trait that will matter as the season progresses. With momentum now building, Seton Hall will look to carry this improved energy and execution into their next matchup on Tuesday, when they return to the court to host New Haven.

This article was written by William Murphy, a correspondent and scout for NetScouts Basketball. You can follow us on Instagram, or on twitter.

We are looking for those interested in our basketball scout apprenticeship program. For information contact us and forward your resume.

Seton Hall Romps Over Fairfield

by Carl Berman
written by Carl Berman

Newark. N.J. – After an underwhelming performance against Wagner, Seton Hall came into their next matchup in need of a reset — and they delivered. Back on their home floor, Seton Hall responded with purpose, controlling the game from start to finish in an impressive 82–59 win over the Fairfield Stags. Behind a balanced scoring effort and improved execution on both ends of the floor, the Pirates looked far more like the team they expect to be as they worked their way back into rhythm.

The story of the night for the Pirates was their suffocating defense combined with a diverse scoring effort, as eight different players finished with at least eight points. Seton Hall moved the ball crisply within the flow of their offense, generating clean looks and dominating the interior with a 40–12 advantage in points in the paint. Defensively, they were just as impressive, forcing 17 turnovers while racking up 12 steals and 13 blocks to completely disrupt the Stags’ rhythm.

The standout performance of the night for the Pirates came from freshman big man Najai Hines, who delivered his first collegiate double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds in just 24 minutes of action, adding two blocks to round out an impressive outing. Throughout the game, Coach Shaheen Holloway was in Hines’ ear during every dead ball, guiding him, challenging him, and giving him plenty of opportunities to grow on the floor. As Hines continues to adjust to the speed and physicality of the college game, these moments are invaluable for his development — especially with Big East play on the horizon.

Hines made his presence felt early and often on the offensive glass, attacking rebounds with purpose and securing six offensive boards, which he turned into six second-chance points. His energy, physicality, and willingness to do the dirty work provided a major spark for Seton Hall and offered a glimpse of just how impactful he can become as he gains more experience.

The Stags managed to stay competitive early, largely due to the play of Braden Sparks. The 6-foot point guard came out firing, scoring Fairfield’s first 10 points and showing no hesitation in attacking every defender the Pirates put in front of him. He finished with an impressive 20 points on 6-of-13 shooting, including 3-of-5 from beyond the arc. Sparks is clearly the engine of Fairfield’s offense, and their success this season will likely hinge on his ability to produce at a high level.

Defensively, he held his own as well, switching effectively and staying disciplined in the full-court press, particularly when matched up against the speedy Budd Clark. With a JUCO season already behind him and the extra year of eligibility that comes with it, Sparks is poised for a breakout year. If he continues on this trajectory, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him make a jump to a higher-level conference once the season concludes.

Entering the offseason, the Pirates’ staff made it a priority to address one of last year’s biggest weaknesses: perimeter shooting. To bolster that area, they turned to the transfer portal and added former Miami Hurricane AJ Staton-McCray, a once 41% three-point shooter. Tonight, he showed exactly why he was such an important pickup. Staton-McCray was active in every phase of the game, finishing with 13 points, two rebounds, two assists, four steals, and a block while shooting an efficient 5-of-8 from the field and 3-of-4 from deep.

He knocked down multiple tough, contested threes — all within the rhythm of the offense — and mixed in strong drives to the rim, converting through contact. Defensively, he was just as impactful. His activity and quick hands consistently disrupted Fairfield’s ballhandlers, creating turnovers and transition opportunities for Seton Hall. If Staton-McCray can deliver this level of production on a nightly basis, he dramatically elevates the Pirates’ ceiling moving forward.

With contributions coming from all corners of the roster and clear strides made on both ends of the floor, the Pirates put together the kind of complete performance they were searching for after a sluggish outing against Wagner. The blend of defensive intensity, balanced scoring, and emerging individual standouts like Hines and Staton-McCray gives Seton Hall plenty of momentum as they continue to build their identity early in the season. The Pirates will look to carry that energy into their next matchup on Thursday, when they return to the court to take on Monmouth.

This article was written by William Murphy, a correspondent and scout for NetScouts Basketball. You can follow us on Instagram, or on twitter.

We are looking for those interested in our basketball scout apprenticeship program. For information contact us and forward your resume.

George Washington/Virginia Tech Win at Hall of Fame Tip-Off

by Carl Berman
written by Carl Berman

Uncasville, CT – Four teams along the East Coast squared off at Mohegan Sun on Saturday, delivering a full day of high-level, back-and-forth college basketball. Both matchups went down to the wire, showcasing competitive energy, strategic adjustments, and standout individual performances. In the first game, George Washington stifled USF’s perimeter attack, consistently running shooters off the line and disrupting their rhythm from deep. That defensive effort proved crucial, helping the Revolutionaries secure a hard-fought 99–95 victory in a game that featured multiple lead changes and momentum swings.

The second matchup was equally thrilling, as Virginia Tech battled through a high-scoring, fast-paced contest that ultimately required overtime for them to defeat Providence. The Hokies displayed poise in crunch time, executing offensively and getting key stops when it mattered most. From clutch shot-making to late-game composure, Virginia Tech’s performance capped off a dramatic afternoon of basketball at Mohegan Sun. Overall, the event delivered everything fans could hope for—intensity, elite shot-making, and games that stayed competitive until the final buzzer.

One of the key factors in George Washington’s win was the team’s ability to neutralize USF’s top perimeter threat, Joseph Pinion. Coming off a season in which he hit 85 threes at Arkansas State, Pinion entered the game as a major concern for GW’s defense. However, the Revolutionaries held him to just 1-of-13 from beyond the arc and only seven total points, a defensive effort that proved crucial in such a tight matchup.

Despite early foul trouble, George Washington’s big man Rafael Castro remained one of their most reliable offensive options. His unique skill set – putting the ball on the floor, attacking the rim, and kicking out to shooters – makes him an unconventional and highly versatile weapon for his size. Castro fouled out after only 21 minutes, and had he been able to stay disciplined defensively, he might have turned a close win into a comfortable one, as USF’s only consistent answer for him was to send him to the free-throw line.

USF, however, refused to go away, thanks largely to a spectacular performance from Robert Morris transfer Josh Omojafo. The senior poured in 33 points on 9-of-14 shooting, including 3-of-5 from deep and an impressive 12-of-14 at the line. Omojafo erupted for 20 points in the first half, prompting the GW staff to emphasize denying him touches after the break. Their adjustments worked for a stretch, his first points of the second half didn’t come until the 10-minute mark, but he continued to attack the rim with ease and showed he could score at all three levels. His effort kept USF within striking distance throughout, making the game far more competitive than the Revolutionaries might have preferred.

The game of the day came from Virginia Tech and Providence. In a hostile environment, the Hokies made the key plays late and escaped with a hard-fought six-point victory. The undeniable star of the night was freshman Neoklis Avdalas, who delivered an elite all-around performance that will undoubtedly elevate his draft stock. The 6’9″ wing from Greece finished with 33 points, five rebounds, and six assists, serving as a point forward and running the offense seamlessly whenever Ben Hammond was off the floor. Avdalas used his size and poise to get downhill, finish through contact, and consistently create for teammates. His shot selection was outstanding, every jumper looked smooth and controlled, and he knocked down shots at all three levels, going 13-of-23 from the field and 5-of-8 from three.

Providence’s transfer duo of Jaylin Sellers and Jason Edwards refused to let their team go quietly, combining for 54 points and keeping their team alive possession after possession. Sellers showcased his smooth lefty stroke and deep shooting range, hitting four timely threes while using his strong frame to finish through contact and converting 6-of-6 at the line. Edwards injected pace into the Friars’ offense, repeatedly pushing the ball in transition and generating easy baskets as Virginia Tech struggled to match up in time. Even without a strong night from deep, Edwards silenced questions about his size by rising over the Hokies’ rim protectors and finishing several impressive drives through traffic.

A standout under-the-radar performance came from Providence freshman Stefan Vaaks, who flashed the tools to become a key contributor this season. With three seconds left in regulation, Kim English trusted the young guard to take the potential game winner, designing an inbound play for him. Vaaks curled off multiple screens, caught the ball near midcourt, and came inches away from burying the shot. That level of trust from the coaching staff speaks volumes about his long-term potential.

Despite Providence’s strong individual performances, the Virginia Tech staff delivered a masterclass in game management, making timely adjustments and keeping their composure in a back-and-forth battle. Their execution down the stretch allowed the Hokies to escape with a narrow but well-earned victory, capping off a thrilling showdown at Mohegan Sun.

Overall, Saturday’s slate at Mohegan Sun delivered everything fans could ask for—elite individual performances, compelling storylines, and games that stayed competitive until the final possession. George Washington’s defensive discipline and offensive versatility powered them past a dangerous USF squad, while Virginia Tech’s late-game execution and breakout performance from Avdalas lifted the Hokies in the overtime thriller against Providence. Both matchups highlighted the depth of talent across the East Coast and offered an early glimpse at teams capable of making noise as the season progresses. If this event is any indication of what’s ahead, college basketball is in for an exciting year.

This article was written by Wiliam Murphy, a correspondent and scout for NetScouts Basketball. You can follow us on Instagram, or on twitter.

We are looking for those interested in our basketball scout apprenticeship program. For information contact us and forward your resume.

Alabama Tops St. John’s in Fast Paced Thriller

by Carl Berman
written by Carl Berman

New York, NY – There’s nothing better than two of college basketball’s finest meeting for a showdown at the mecca and that’s exactly what we got between #5 ranked St. John’s and #15 ranked Alabama. In a high-scoring battle that stayed tight well into the second half, Alabama eventually pulled away for a 103–96 win, but the game was filled with standout performances on both sides.

St. John’s came out strong behind its frontcourt duo of Bryce Hopkins and Zuby Ejiofor, with Ejiofor mainly dominating the first half. He scored 21 points on 7-of-8 shooting before halftime, punishing Alabama inside and forcing the Crimson Tide into some early foul trouble, playing a key role in the Red Storm attempting 23 first-half free throws. Even more notable was Ejiofor knocking down jumpers, including two threes, something rarely seen last season when he made just 14 jumpers total. His shooting gave St. John’s another perimeter threat that they needed today. 

On the Alabama side, the backcourt of Labaron Philon and Aden Holloway carried the offense early, combining for 25 points in the first half. Holloway, returning from injury, looked poised and confident with 15 of those points on efficient shooting. Latrell Wrightsell, also making his season debut, gave them perimeter scoring and spacing. Alabama’s pace and three-point efficiency helped them take a 53–44 lead into halftime.

At halftime, St. John’s needed more from its guards, who were just 1-for-10 from the field. They responded. Ian Jackson and Oziyah Sellers came alive in the second half, both finishing with 14 points. They attacked downhill, used ball-handling creativity to open driving lanes, and put pressure on Alabama’s guards defensively. This sparked a run that brought the Red Storm back into striking distance and had the garden rocking at points in the second half. 

But Alabama did not fold. The second half turned into the Labaron Philon show, with Taylor Bol Bowen as his co-star two-way contributor. After a quieter first half, Philon controlled the game after the break. He manipulated pick-and-roll switches, created spacing off the dribble, finished at the rim, and generated playmaking advantages even when they didn’t show directly in his stats on the day. His poise and craftiness highlighted why he is projected as a potential lottery pick for the 2026 NBA Draft

Meanwhile, Bowen provided energy and toughness, finishing with 17 points and 9 rebounds while playing both the four and small-ball five roles. His rim protection, physicality, and defensive presence helped slow Ejiofor’s interior dominance from the first half. Bowen’s impact wasn’t just on the stat sheet he was a stabilizer during key possessions that prevented St. John’s from fully flipping the game in their favor.

Alabama’s mini-run late in the second half ultimately sealed the game, but the performance from both teams showed why each has high expectations this season.

For Alabama, the guard trio of Philon, Holloway, and Wrightsell was the main difference. Philon dictated tempo and also showed some NBA-level shot creation as well. Holloway complemented him as a secondary handler who could break down defenders with quickness and shot creation in ball screen situations. Wrightsell spaced the floor, stayed aggressive as a shooter, and made his presence felt defensively, in which he had four of Alabama’s nine steals. When these three guards are playing at this level, Alabama can beat anyone in the country.

For St. John’s, the main takeaway is that the core pieces showed high upside as a unit. Ejiofor looks to be carrying over his paint dominance with some willingness to expand his offensive range. Hopkins provided some steadiness and physicality. Jackson and Sellers showcased the ability to create off the bounce and attack the rim, something last year’s team lacked at times. The question moving forward is consistency, particularly perimeter shooting. The mechanics and confidence have shown improvement, but St. John’s will need reliable shot making from its guards to reach its maximum ceiling.

Still, there are clear positives. This year’s St. John’s backcourt is more dynamic, with players who can create their own offense instead of relying solely on sets or post up possessions. If that translates on a night-to-night basis, St. John’s will remain one of the toughest teams in the country again and a major threat to make a deep NCAA Tournament run, something last season’s historic team fell short of achieving.

Despite the loss, St. John’s showed resilience and improved offensive explosiveness, while Alabama reminded the country that they should not be slept on and displayed just how dangerous their roster can be. If this matchup is any indicator, both teams should be expected to stay near the top of the rankings as the season goes on.

This article was written by Jordan Amadeo, a correspondent and scout for NetScouts Basketball. You can follow us on Instagram, or on twitter.

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Seton Hall Rolls Past St. Peter’s in Home Opener

by Carl Berman
written by Carl Berman

Newark, N.J. – Coming off one of the worst seasons in program history, Seton Hall attacked the transfer portal with purpose, targeting players who fit Coach Shaheen Holloway’s identity. Based on their season-opening performance, it looks like may have them. The Pirates rolled past Saint Peter’s in a 77–50 victory, showcasing their improved depth, toughness, and overall growth as a team.

Midway through the summer, the Seton Hall staff was searching for a big man — and they struck gold with Najai Hines, the No. 71 nationally ranked player per 247Sports. On opening night, Hines showed exactly why. The freshman finished with 12 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 blocks in just 21 minutes, using his elite length to challenge St. Peter’s at the rim without hesitation. A former Power Five tight end recruit, Hines was a dominant interior presence, carving up the Peacocks’ zone for easy finishes around the basket. His impact wasn’t limited to offense, as he also proved he can switch onto quick guards — a rare and valuable trait for a player his size.

In Shaheen Holloway’s four years at Seton Hall, he has struggled to find a true point guard who fits his style — until he landed Budd Clark. Clark was outstanding tonight. While his stat line didn’t jump off the page, he delivered all the intangibles that don’t always show up in the box score. He injected pace into the offense, creating an uptempo flow that led to easy baskets, even when they didn’t come off assists. Against St. Peter’s zone, Clark operated with poise and precision throughout his 25 minutes, consistently generating clean looks for his teammates and keeping the offense organized.

Even in St. Peter’s 27-point loss, there was a clear bright spot: TJ Robinson. The freshman showcased impressive shot-creation off the dribble, no matter who Seton Hall threw at him. Though he finished with just 11 points, Robinson was the Peacocks’ lone offensive engine, especially with the Pirates locking down Bryce Eaton. He consistently got into the lane, found his spots, and drew fouls to earn trips to the line. Robinson’s ability to create his own shot in a variety of situations stood out, and it will be interesting to see how his game develops in the MAAC this season — with a likely jump to a Power Five program in the next couple of years.

One of Seton Hall’s biggest weaknesses last season was its frontcourt production, particularly at the center position, which combined for just 7.3 points per game. Tonight, the Pirates made it clear that upgrading this area was a priority — and it showed. In addition to Hines’ breakout performance, Stephon Payne provided the perfect complement. While their skill sets differ, Payne’s lateral quickness is a major asset. He switched effectively onto guards, disrupted passing lanes, and generated turnovers with active hands. Payne, the Pirates’ starting center, finished with 11 points, 3 rebounds, 2 steals, and 2 blocks while shooting 3-for-4 from the line. The Hines–Payne duo brought a true “Sonic & Knuckles” dynamic to the floor. With Godswill Erheriene set to return from injury, Seton Hall should have no shortage of frontcourt talent this season.

One of the most interesting things tonight was Holloway essentially making a full hockey-style line change at the under–16 timeout. It appears he finally has a deep roster with little to no drop-off when he goes to the bench. Trey Parker replaced starting point guard Budd Clark and held his own. Despite forcing a few early shots, he soon settled in, facilitated the offense, and created clean looks for his teammates. Another standout from the second unit was Jacob Dar, who became the focal point of the group. He consistently flashed to the free-throw line against St Peter’s zone, and whether he was feeding the bigs, kicking out to shooters, or taking it to the rim himself, he made the offense flow.

Seton Hall will look to build on this strong non-conference win when they host Wagner on Friday in an on-campus matchup. The Pirates should aim to carry over the same defensive intensity, particularly their full-court pressure that disrupted St. Peter’s throughout the night. Offensively, establishing their bigs early and often will remain key, especially with the momentum generated by the Hines–Payne duo. If Seton Hall can replicate the depth, energy, and balance they showcased in the opener, they’ll put themselves in a strong position to continue stacking wins as they move deeper into the non-conference slate.

This article was written by William Murphy, a correspondent and scout for NetScouts Basketball. You can follow us on Instagram, or on twitter.

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Seton Hall Upsets Marquette

by Carl Berman
written by Carl Berman

Heading Title

Newark, N.J. – The Seton Hall Pirates did it again, this time taking down the #7-ranked Marquette Golden Eagles 78-75, marking their third straight win as an underdog against AP ranked opponents.

Guard Al-Amir Dawes carried the Pirates in the first half despite stud guard Kadary Richmond watching from the sidelines with two early fouls. Dawes caught fire from deep going 4-of-5 on 3s. He’d score 15 first half points and 23 total to lead all scorers. They weathered their turnover woes (22 total) by absolutely dominating on the glass, 43-25, and being highly efficient from the field with splits of 52/40/87 as an entire team. The second half belonged to Richmond, making his presence felt with 14 of his 21 points scoring off relentless paint attacks.

 

Although the scoring responsibility was mostly a 2-man crew, it took an entire team to take down this highly touted Marquette crew. Coach Shaheen Holloway had his team ready on the defensive side. They were locked in on their pick-and-roll coverages, being synchronized on all their rotations. Seton Hall had great length advantages with their perimeter players. Most importantly, they finished a lot of possessions, getting 29 defensive rebounds. That’s more than Marquette had on both sides of the floor.

 

 

Marquette coach Shaka Smart’s emphasis for deflections proved successful early, forcing 12 turnovers for 17 points in the first half. Top prospect center Oso Ighodaro played a part in forcing turnovers with incredible length to disrupt passes, in addition to running the floor for easy slams. The offense was flowing and feeding off the energy their defense created for an early 23-13 lead, then they began to stifle.

 

Marquette had their own turnover woes in the first half. All-American point guard Tyler Kolek carelessly turned it over three times, with backup point guard Sean Jones having three of his own. Marquette didn’t look comfortable on offense unless they played out in transition or got early offense scoring opportunities with Seton Hall’s defense not set. Kolek couldn’t get into much of a rhythm throughout the game going 1-of-6 for a mere five points with three turnovers. Their second leading scorer Kam Jones went ice cold almost the entire second half, shooting 5-of-15 total and at one point missing seven straight. Ighodaro was the only player who found consistent success with 22 points on 9-of-14 shooting.

 

Seton Hall (10-5, 3-1) have now racked up impressive wins against #4 UConn, #7 Marquette, and at #23 Providence in just the last few weeks. Notable aces for both UConn and Providence got injured while playing Seton Hall in Donovan Clingan and Bryce Hopkins, but injury luck played no factor in the Pirates taking this one. They’ve now held ranked opponents in their wins to 43% or less shooting from the field. Coach Holloway is solidifying this squad as a team worthy of consideration to be in the national tournament. They attempt to maintain their position in the Big East table and continue building their reputation on the road against Georgetown Tuesday.

 

Marquette (11-4, 2-2) came into this game off a quality win against a ranked Creighton squad, but now fall to sixth in the Big East having lost to Providence earlier last month. Marquette has national championship ambitions but are having early struggles taking care of business within their own conference. They look to get back into championship mode in a home matchup against Butler Wednesday.

 

This article was written by Justin Maldonado, a correspondent and scout for NetScouts Basketball. You can follow us on Facebook, or on twitter.

 

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