Rick Pitino says Kadary Richmond would’ve stayed at Seton Hall “if the money was close.” The 6-foot-6 Brooklyn native transferred to St. John’s from Seton Hall last spring for an NIL bag that was more significant than what Seton Hall could offer. Top transfers in today’s market can get in the high six-figures or even low seven.

St. John’s defense put the squeeze on standout Seton Hall wing Isaiah Coleman, who tallied 11 points and six boards but shot just 1-of-12 from the field. A bad game for the Hall got worse when starting guard Chaunce Jenkins (11.3 ppg) limped off the court shortly before halftime and did not return due to a hamstring injury.

St. John’s blew past Seton Hall early with a huge first half and then rolled to a 79-51 Big East victory at Prudential Center. The Storm’s win was its fifth in a row and 11th in 12 games. More important: their victory combined with Xavier’s win at No. 7 Marquette, puts St. John’s (16-3, 7-1) alone in first place in the Big East.