Madison Square Garden—-The Huskies return to the Big East championship game for the first time since Kemba Walker’s memorable run, propelled by Tristen Newton’s stellar performance with 25 points and nine assists in a thrilling 95-90 victory over St. John’s at Madison Square Garden.
Coach Dan Hurley likened the upcoming final against Marquette to the Super Bowl, marking UConn’s 11th appearance in the Big East Tournament final and their first since rejoining the league in 2020-21. They also completed an unprecedented four game sweep of Pitino-coached teams over the past 12-months.
Despite St. John’s valiant effort, led by Daniss Jenkins’ 27 points, they couldn’t overcome UConn’s dominance, leaving the Huskies poised for their eighth Big East Tournament title.
“The emotions, the intensity, the shot-making. It was just a fun game to be a part of,” Hurley said. “So thrilled to get the win and excited to get to the championship Saturday night.
Both teams’ coaches, Hurley and Hall of Famer Rick Pitino, were animated throughout the game, even receiving matching technical fouls in the first half. Newton and Cam Spencer showcased a brilliant backcourt performance, making history as the only Division I teammates in the past 25 years to each record at least 20 points, eight assists, and no more than one turnover in the same game.
With St. John’s within seven points after an R.J. Luis inside bucket, Spencer snatched an offensive rebound and passed it to Newton, who returned the ball to Spencer. Spencer drained a trey to put the Huskies back up 10 and they never looked back.
St. John’s impressive late-season surge under Pitino has positioned them as a formidable contender for an NCAA Tournament invite, while UConn remains focused on securing another championship.
“They’re just a great, great offensive basketball team,” Johnnies Rick Pitino said of the Huskies.
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UConn swept both games against Marquette during the regular season.
