St. John's brings some negative vibes into the Garden on Saturday, but hope to leave with smiles.
The Johnnies (4-5) are set to face the Fordham Rams in an intra-city battle for some Big Apple bragging rights. The match-up, which takes place at Madison Square Garden at approximately 2:30, is the second bill of a new-look MSG Holiday Festival.
Instead of the customary two-day, four-squad mini tournament, the Holiday Festival will only be a one day doubleheader event this time around due to venue scheduling restrictions. Big East foe Rutgers will take on Stony Brook at noon.
The Red Storm have two goals in mind. Though the roster has been almost entirely turned over from last December, you can bet the Johnnies are hungry for payback. Whether you remember clearly or choose not to, the Rams dethroned St. John's a year ago at Rose Hill. Secondly, and more importantly, St. John's looks to get back on track after a skid that has placed the team under .500.
Phil Greene will handle responsibilities running the half-court offense and attempt to get teammates Moe Harkless, D'Angelo Harrison, and Gods'gift Achiuwa opportunities to score.
Fordham, led by head coach Tom Pecora, rides into the Garden with a similar 4-5 record. Chris Gaston and Devon McMillan must lead the Rams if the boys from the Bronx want a chance.
A week before Christmas. An afternoon at the Garden. Pride is on the line. This one should be fun.
See also: Rumble Preview: St. John's vs. Fordham Rams (MSG Holiday Festival)