Ruben Prey’s perfect 16-minute performance off the bench covered for Zuby Ejiofor’s foul trouble, lifting No. 18 St. John’s to a 72-65 win over Seton Hall and clinching the Big East title—a victory that signals the Red Storm’s readiness for a deep NCAA tournament run.
With Zuby Ejiofor in foul trouble, St. John’s turned to a sophomore from Portugal who had played sparingly in big moments. Ruben Prey responded with one of his most impactful games of the season, tallying eight points, three rebounds, and a blocked shot in 16 quality minutes during the Red Storm’s 72-65 victory over Seton Hall on March 6, 2026—a win that clinched at least a share of the Big East championship and completed a dramatic season turnaround under Rick Pitino.
Ejiofor picked up his second foul with 4:55 left in the first half, then his third early in the second half. Both times, Prey entered and provided immediate stability, hitting timely post shots and defending with awareness that kept St. John’s ahead on the scoreboard. His performance wasn’t just fill-in; it was dominant, earning him the team’s “Big Bells” award for the player who impacts winning most at both ends.
“He was absolutely perfect, I would say,” Ejiofor said. “I had some questionable [foul] calls, Coach [Rick Pitino] sat me on the bench, gave me a little bit of rest. Ruben stepped up, hit some big-time shots in the post. He played well defensively.” The game recap captured Pitino’s own praise: “When Zuby was out resting, Ruben did a phenomenal job.”
Historical Milestones and Program Resurgence
This victory triggers several historic markers for St. John’s, underscoring a renaissance under Pitino:
- First back-to-back wins at Seton Hall’s Prudential Center, improving their all-time record there to 3-12—a symbolic breakthrough in a notoriously hostile road environment [citation].
- First consecutive 25-win seasons since 1998-2000, a testament to sustained excellence that eluded the program for over two decades [citation].
- Big East title-clinching victory that cements their regular-season dominance, as reflected in the current conference standings.
Why Prey’s Emergence Changes Everything
For fans who have debated St. John’s frontcourt depth all season, Prey’s performance is the answer. Ejiofor’s brilliance has been unquestioned, but his foul-prone style raised concerns about durability in high-stakes games. Prey, a 6-foot-11 forward with offensive touch and defensive mobility, proved he can absorb critical minutes without a drop-off.
The “Big Bells” award, voted on by players and coaches, highlights a narrative Prey has built all year: he’s a winner. This wasn’t a fluke; it was a continuation of growth Pitino has long projected. “He’s going to have a major role next year,” Pitino has maintained, and against Seton Hall, that future arrived early.
Supporting Cast and Tournament Implications
Prey wasn’t alone. Guard Oziyah Sellers hit three 3-pointers in the second half—his first such game since February 3 [citation]—providing crucial floor spacing. The balance between Ejiofor’s interior dominance, Prey’s bench relief, and Sellers’ perimeter shooting defines a versatile attack.
For the NCAA tournament, this win confirms St. John’s has the depth to withstand the physicality and pace of March. Teams with单一 stars often crumble under pressure; St. John’s now has multiple options, with Prey transitioning from question mark to trusted weapon.
Fan Theories and the Road Ahead
The fanbase has long speculated whether Prey could become a starter, and this game fuels that debate. While Ejiofor remains the centerpiece, Prey’s ability to play starter minutes without negative impact gives Pitino strategic flexibility. Could a dual-big lineup be in store for the tournament? The Seton Hall game suggests yes.
Moreover, the program’s first consecutive 25-win seasons since the late 1990s signal a new era. This isn’t just about one title; it’s about building a consistent contender. Prey’s development is central to that blueprint.
St. John’s standing in the team statistics already reflected elite efficiency, but the Seton Hall win proves they can win ugly—a trademark of championship teams.
In the end, Ruben Prey didn’t just give St. John’s a lift; he offered a glimpse of how this team could survive—and thrive—in the tournament. With Ejiofor drawing defenses, Prey’s soft touch and IQ become even more valuable. The Big East crown is theirs, but the real prize awaits in March.
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