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The scene was both amusing and memorable. It unfolded late last month within the press conference room of PeoplesBank Arena, a venue eternally etched in the minds of Eastern basketball enthusiasts as the Hartford Civic Center. UConn had just triumphed over St. John’s with an imposing score of 72-40, effectively overshadowing them by what felt like a million points.
Danny Hurley was presiding over the discussion, and his talkative demeanor promised an engaging session — a treat for anyone familiar with his charismatic style. His team had restricted the Johnnies to just two baskets in the second half. When I inquired if he had ever witnessed a competent team (bearing in mind St. John’s impressive streak of 13 consecutive wins and 16 victories out of their last 17 games) perform so dismally, his response was priceless.
What ensued was a classic Hurley moment: a blend of insight and anecdotes, meandering through a two-minute reply that generously offered me several future column ideas. One remark stood out, as he wrapped up by saying:
“We expect, hopefully, to get a third game [in the Big East Tournament]. I think it would be great for the Big East and great for college basketball.”