2015 NCAA Tournament Preview: No. 8 San Diego State vs. No. 9 St. John’s

By Taylor Sturm
San Diego State Basketball
Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports

The San Diego State Aztecs started off the season as one of the most disappointing teams in college basketball, but they bounced back by winning 14 of their Mountain West games to finish on top of the regular season conference standings. The St. John’s Red Storm, on the other hand, started off the season as one of the most surprising teams in the country, but they struggled in conference play, losing eight total Big East games. These two teams face off in the second-round of the 2015 NCAA Tournament, with dreams of going on a daring run.

What to Watch For

With the second ranked defense in college basketball when it comes to points allowed per game, SDSU will focus on defense as has been their mantra for the past few seasons. St. John’s defense has struggled this season, but their offense has been above average. Expect a hard fought game that will probably finish with neither team scoring over 60 points.

Prediction

After their collapse entering conference play, it’s nearly impossible for me to see any scenario except a San Diego State win. The Johnnies are a good team, but their defensive weaknesses coupled with their offensive inconsistencies do not bode well for tournament play.

Although St. John’s is more than capable of going on a D’Angelo Harrison fueled run deep into the tournament, give this one to defensive minded San Diego State. SDSU has underperformed all season long, so watch out for them as they move forward in the 2015 NCAA Tournament.

San Diego State 62, St. John’s 58

Taylor Sturm is a Featured Basketball Writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @TSturmRS, like him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.

Share On FacebookShare StumbleUpon

You May Also Like