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The St. John's Red Storm will tip off their 2024-25 campaign on Monday against Monmouth University, aiming to build on the momentum of consecutive Big East championships. Under head coach Rick Pitino, the program has undergone a remarkable transformation, rising from the bottom of the conference to back-to-back titles. Now in his fourth year at the helm, Pitino and his squad are eyeing a three-peat and a deep NCAA Tournament run.
With a roster brimming with talent, St. John's is considered a legitimate Final Four contender, and one player who could be pivotal to their success is point guard Quinn Ellis. CJ Moore of The Athletic recently highlighted Ellis as a player to watch this season, and for good reason.
Ellis Brings Experience and Versatility
Ellis arrives in college basketball with a wealth of experience as a starting guard overseas, making him an older, seasoned presence who can contribute immediately. On a team loaded with scorers, Ellis will be tasked with facilitating the offense. As a true floor general, he is expected to lead the team in assists and orchestrate a fast-paced attack that suits his speed and athleticism.
Despite his height, Ellis possesses excellent quickness and athleticism, making him a dangerous weapon in transition. Beyond his passing, he is also one of the team's better rebounders and defenders, adding value on both ends of the floor.
Addressing a Position of Need
Point guard play was a weakness for St. John's last season, but Ellis's arrival should remedy that. His potential is immense, and many believe he could rank among the nation's top guards. If he lives up to expectations, the Red Storm could be in for a special year.
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