One week closer, folks. We're only 18 days away from Red Storm Tip-Off, which officially kicks off the start of the season. St. John's released its first countdown promotion earlier on Monday, headlined by heralded freshman forward JaKarr Sampson.
Last week, we told you about the heavy lifting the Rumble has been doing in preparation for another highly-anticipated season. There's never anything wrong with a humble brag.
While we are talking about ourselves, we'll reiterate how truly excited we are for SB Nation United's fast-approaching launch. SB Nation United has provided us with a new logo, and will soon provide Rumble with an entirely new look. The changes will be significant and they will be beneficial. The hope is that your viewing experience will be better because of it.
The rest of the weekly recap, below the fold.
St. John's hosts successful Dribble for the Cure event
On Saturday, the Red Storm hosted more than 400 people on campus for the second-annual Dribble for the Cure event. The cause, which intends to raise funds and awareness for pediatric cancer, brought in more than $25,000 - an increase from last year's total.
Steve Lavin, Joe Tartamella, Lou Carnesecca, Jack Kaiser, and John Starks headlined an event that was lighthearted and informative. It proves that we can utilize something we love and invest so much time in (basketball) to help others and change their lives in the process. Big kudos go out to the St. John's Athletics team that put so much hard work into making the event possible. See you next year!
Checking in with some familiar faces
The Rumble was at Dribble for the Cure on Saturday, where a number of the Red Storm's coaches and players were available to talk with the media. We caught up with Steve Lavin, D'Angelo Harrison, and Amir Garrett.
Lavin gave an update on his health (very positive), expressed his feelings about the upcoming season, and discussed how time away from the team a year ago affected things. As is made evident with the stellar recruiting class he reeled in his offseason, Lavin mentioned how his decision to not coach last season helped recruiting and provided a benefit of being more visible in the summer months.
Harrison is shifting into a new role both on and off the court this season. By taking many of the point guard responsibilities and becoming a veteran leader, the sophomore guard will have some added pressure. But he insists that he is more than ready for it.
The transition from the baseball diamond to the hardwood hasn't been effortless for Amir Garrett, who is just now getting closer to the physical condition necessary to handle the strenuous practices conducted by the staff. He's an athletic specimen, and he should have no issue getting all the way up to speed in no time.
Some recruiting news
The Red Storm welcomed Philadelphia guard Rysheed Jordan for an official visit this past weekend. There hasn't been word about how the stay in Queens went. Adam Zagoria reported that Jordan will head out west next weekend to visit UCLA.
Looking for work: Red Storm alum waived
DJ Kennedy was waived by the Memphis Grizzlies on Wednesday, after being traded there in July from the Cleveland Cavaliers. St. John's fans are intently rooting for Kennedy to find a home in the NBA. Kennedy is a hard worker and holds intangibles that can contribute to a professional team. He will resurface. NBA preseason camps are set to commence in early October.
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