Kadary Richmond Etches His Name in St. John’s History with a Triple-Double
In an electrifying game that showcased both individual brilliance and collective effort, Kadary Richmond of St. John’s University cemented his place in the annals of college basketball history. On Saturday, Richmond achieved a rare and impressive feat—a triple-double—during his team’s nail-biting 86-84 overtime victory against the No. 20 Marquette Golden Eagles at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee. This historic performance marked the first triple-double by a St. John’s player since the legendary Ron Artest (now known as Metta Sandiford-Artest) accomplished the same on January 9, 1999. Richmond’s monumental achievement not only highlighted his abilities but also underscored the team’s remarkable season, as they continue to break records and make history.
A Night to Remember: Richmond’s Stellar Performance
Kadary Richmond’s triple-double was a testament to his all-around skill and determination. Over the course of 42 minutes, he tallied 10 points, 12 rebounds, 11 assists, and four steals, with only two turnovers to his name. While his shooting was not at its sharpest—Richmond was just 5-for-13 from the field—his impact on the game extended far beyond scoring. His ability to dominate on both ends of the court, facilitate plays, and make clutch defensive stops exemplified his leadership and maturity. One of the most pivotal moments of the game came when Richmond’s quick hands and instincts led to a game-changing steal. After RJ Luis Jr. missed a 3-pointer in the final seconds of overtime, Richmond tipped the ball away from Marquette’s Chase Ross, allowing teammate Simeon Wilcher to retrieve it and set up Zuby Ejiofor for the buzzer-beating, game-winning shot.
Coach Rick Pitino’s Praise for Richmond: A Rare Gem in Modern Basketball
St. John’s Hall of Fame coach Rick Pitino, who has guided some of the sport’s most talented players throughout his illustrious career, couldn’t help but sing Richmond’s praises after the game. Pitino described Richmond as “the easiest great player I’ve coached by far,” emphasizing his unique combination of humility, work ethic, and intelligence. “He owns up to everything, he listens, and it’s always about his teammates, never about him,” Pitino said. The coach also noted Richmond’s ability to push through fatigue and deliver critical plays down the stretch, which proved instrumental in securing the win. Pitino’s admiration for Richmond’s character is particularly notable in an era where individual accolades often take center stage. Richmond’s humility and team-first mentality are qualities that make him a standout figure in today’s game.
Simeon Wilcher and the Supporting Cast Shine Bright
While Richmond’s triple-double rightly took center stage, the victory over Marquette was a true team effort. Simeon Wilcher, a pivotal contributor for the Red Storm, stepped up in a big way, delivering his best performance in weeks. With 13 points, three assists, and a block in 41 minutes of play, Wilcher’s impact was felt on both ends of the court. His elevated role was necessary due to the absence of Deivon Smith, who sat out with a right shoulder injury. Wilcher’s ability to rise to the occasion and make key contributions underscores the depth and resilience of this St. John’s squad.
Additionally, freshman Lefteris Liotopoulos saw a season-high 16 minutes off the bench, scoring six points and grabbing two rebounds. His performance was a welcomed boost for a team that continues to rely on contributions from every player on its roster. As the season progresses, the development of younger players like Liotopoulos will be crucial in maintaining the Red Storm’s competitive edge.
A Season for the Ages: St. John’s Makes History
The victory over Marquette marked St. John’s 27th regular-season win, tying a program record set by the 1985-86 team. This achievement is a testament to the team’s consistency and determination throughout the season. The Red Storm’s ability to perform under pressure and secure high-stakes victories has been a hallmark of their campaign. As they approach the final stretch of the season, St. John’s is well-positioned to make a deep run in the postseason, with players like Richmond and Wilcher leading the charge.
A Promising Future for St. John’s Basketball
As the 2023-24 season unfolds, the St. John’s Red Storm continues to capture the attention of basketball fans nationwide. With a mix of seasoned veterans like Kadary Richmond and emerging talents like Simeon Wilcher and Lefteris Liotopoulos, the team is building a foundation for long-term success. Richmond’s triple-double against Marquette serves as a reminder of the individual and collective achievements that define this special season. As the Red Storm prepares for the challenges ahead, their ability to come together as a unit and overcome adversity will be key to their ultimate goals. For now, St. John’s fans can bask in the glory of another historic victory and the knowledge that this team is capable of achieving greatness.
