Central Connecticut State vs. St. John’s final score: Red Storm take down Blue Devils

The St. John’s Red Storm took care of business for the second straight game on Tuesday night at Carnesecca Arena, defeating the Central Connecticut State Blue Devils 80-55.

There was a time, not so long ago, when this would have been a game St. John’s had to grind out and struggle. That wasn’t the case Tuesday, though. The Red Storm led for the final 35 minutes of the game, by as many as 26 points at times.

After leading the Red Storm in assists and rebounds Friday against New Orleans, Shamorie Ponds decided to lead the team in scoring Tuesday, ending the night with a game-high 21 points to go along with his nine rebounds and four assists. It seems like it’s just a matter of time before he records a triple-double.

Justin Simon recorded his first career double-double, with 12 points and 11 rebounds. The Arizona transfer looks like he will certainly be a difference maker on this St. John’s team, as everyone expected all summer.

Marcus LoVett and Bashir Ahmed also reached double figures in scoring, with 15 and 13, respectively.

Perhaps most impressively? The Red Storm are averaging 21 turnovers forced per game, this season. Just like Friday night, they forced 21 turnovers. They turned those 21 turnovers into 31 points.

Of course, it’s expected that St. John’s look good against New Orleans and Central Connecticut State. The first interesting test will be Thursday, when Nebraska comes to town for the Gavitt Games.