In the next highly anticipated Big East showdown, the UConn Huskies will travel to face the St. John’s Red Storm, aiming to extend their winning streak and solidify their dominance in conference play. The St. John’s Red Storm, currently holding an 11-5 overall record but struggling with a 1-4 mark in Big East play, are eager to bounce back from their setbacks.

Despite a strong overall record, UConn’s head coach, Geno Auriemma, remains cautious about St. John’s defensive tenacity, ensuring his team is as prepared as possible for the challenge ahead. With the game scheduled for January 15, 2025, both sides are ready for an exciting Big East matchup that promises to test their resilience and strategies.

UConn vs. St. John’s predicted lineups

UConn: Kaitlyn Chen, Ashlynn Shade, Azzi Fudd, Jana El Alfy, Sarah Strong

St. John’s: Ber’Nyah Mayo, Lashae Dwyer, Jailah Donald, Skye Owen, Phoenix Gedeon

The St. John’s Red Storm rely on the exceptional performances of their team leaders as they prepare for their showdown against the UConn Huskies. Guard Lashae Dwyer leads the team in scoring, averaging an impressive 14.7 points per game, and is also a defensive standout with 3.3 steals per game.

Forward Phoenix Gedeon dominates the boards, pulling down 5.1 rebounds per contest, while guard Ber’Nyah Mayo orchestrates the offense with 3.0 assists per game. In the paint, forward Kylie Lavelle provides a solid defensive presence, averaging 0.8 blocks per game. Together, these leaders will aim to propel the Red Storm to a statement win in this crucial Big East matchup.

UConn has started strong in Big East play, boasting a perfect 6-0 record. Their only setbacks this season came against top-tier opponents and National Championship contenders Notre Dame and USC, highlighting the competitive challenges they’ve faced outside of conference play.

Paige Bueckers’ Injury Update ahead of game day

Paige Bueckers (G): Bueckers is currently sidelined with a left knee sprain sustained during the game against Villanova. While HC Geno Auriemma has hinted at a potential return as early as January 19 against Seton Hall, her status remains uncertain. Fans and analysts alike are eagerly awaiting an official update on her condition and timeline for recovery, as her presence on the court is pivotal for the Huskies.

The absence of Paige Bueckers presents a challenge for UConn, but the team’s depth and the recent performances of players like Azzi Fudd and Sarah Strong provide optimism.

Fudd has been a standout in Big East play, averaging 22.0 points per game and shooting 45.9% from the floor and 38.9% from three-point range. Strong has been equally impressive, contributing 17.2 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game in conference matchups.

This dynamic duo will be pivotal in leading UConn’s offence against St. John’s. St. John’s will rely on their defensive capabilities and the leadership of Lashae Dwyer to counter the Huskies’ offensive threats, who have no reported injuries for the upcoming game.

Where to watch the game?

You can catch the action; UConn vs St. John’s is scheduled to tip off at 7 PM ET/6 PM CT on Wednesday, January 15th, from Carnesecca Arena in Queens, New York.

UConn vs. St. John’s will be broadcast on SNY, a local broadcast network in the greater New York and Connecticut markets. It can be viewed through cable TV or streamed via live TV streaming apps such as YouTubeTV by fans located in that area.

Fans outside the Connecticut market can view the game on UConn Sports Network, which can be accessed via the team website.

The St. John’s Red Storm, ranked 232nd in points per game with 63.4, rely on their defense, which is one of the best in the country, allowing just 53.8 points per game, good for 11th nationally. This game will be a compelling matchup, pitting St. John’s strong defense against UConn’s offensive firepower.