Photo Courtesy / YouTube Toosii
Women in Sports Program Recognized as Official Student Organization
The Women In Sports organization has seen it all.
JaSOn Petrucci | aPril 27, 2025
For several years, the Sports Management Association stood as St. John’s University’s solo student organization dedicated to sports. This was the case until April 22, when a new program was announced: the Women in Sports Association, a club open to all, but its main focus was to tackle the issue of women in sports.
“I started this because I wanted to meet more like-minded women, especially in such a male-dominated industry, I think it’s helpful,” said Sarah Rao, a junior at St. John’s University and president of the organization.
Rao isn’t a stranger to leadership roles. She is an incoming member of the President’s Society for the 2025–2026 school year, an events coordinator for the Sports Management Association, a Catholic scholar, a GLOBE manager and lastly a resident assistant.
On April 21, the Sports Management Association (SMA) and Women in Sports program attended a New York Mets game. The program was invited to attend a pregame event, where four women who worked for the Mets’ sales team held a panel explaining how they started.
This event marks one of the first major events for the Women in Sports organization since officially being recognized as a campus group. Once recognized, the University gives its or-
ganizations access to funding and resources, which gives groups like this the opportunity to expand and reach more students, while tackling the main problem: navigating an industry that has long been dominated by men.
“We’re rapidly expanding, and now we can campaign more, fundraise more, and work with our amazing alumni network,” Rao said. “This Mets event is just the beginning.”
Since launching the organization in November 2024, Rao has brought together more than 80 students — including both women and men— who share an interest in sports.These students hope to one day work in sports, for teams in front office roles and sales.
Rao has helped to inspire so many young women who are interested in working in the sports industry, just like she had for the freshman representative of WIS, Cristal Rosa Sánchez.
“Even if many people in your community don’t believe in you, there’s always a percentage that does—and they’ll help you persevere,” she shared. “I’ve helped bring in a lot of new members, and some have already secured internships with big companies.”
The inspiration doesn’t stop at just members in her own organization. Rao, already being
a member of the SMA e-board, has grown a strong relationship with President Chris Young, which has opened the opportunity for collaborating. The idea behind this is to create strong connections throughout the sports world—not just for their members, but for any students interested in the opportunities.
“Sarah has done a great job with the club so far,” Young said. “Combining that with SMA and doing these bigger events leads to more opportunities for students who are invested in the sports industry. That’s the end goal for both of us.”
Rao has a dream. Her dream is to work for a sports organization. This summer, she will be beginning an internship with the New York Mets as a member of the sales team, an opportunity she created through running the WIS program. Once an independent organization that would meet once a month, the University is fully on board with women working in sports.
“I believe it makes my career dreams to work within sports—marketing, sales, wherever I end up—feel possible,” Rao said. “This isn’t far-fetched anymore. It’s real.”
Stormin’ Loud 2025 Headliner Announced
Toosii will headline this year’s Stormin’ Loud.
celina mullady | aPril 22, 2025
Toosii is set to headline Stormin’ Loud 2025 with special guest Laila!, according to an Instagram post shared on April 22 by St. John’s University, St. John’s University Campus Activities, St. John’s Multicultural Greek Alliance and Haraya. The performance will take place on the Great Lawn on May 2.
Rapper Toosii — who has over 3,000,000 monthly listeners on Spotify — is most known for his tracks, “Favorite Song” and “Love Hurts.” The artist has also been featured on notable artists’ projects, such as Gunna and Lil Tjay.
Toosii will be joined by hip-hop artist Laila!, who is largely known for her songs, “Not My Problem” and “Like That!” which gained recognition on TikTok. The singer currently has over 1,000,000 monthly listeners on Spotify.
Stormin’ Loud 2025 will also feature performances from student organizations, Kickline, K-Dance and Sensación after their victories at Battle of the Orgs. Additionally, the event will
feature performances from local artists.
Students can get tickets at the Campus Concierge in the D’Angelo Center (DAC) until April 29 at 5 p.m. In an email sent on April 22, all ticketing policies and prices were shared to students, outlining the various ticket tiers.
General admission tickets are free to all students. All tier levels include exclusive Stormin’ Loud merchandise. The packages range from $20 to $70.
There are no ticket sales on the day of the event, and a ticket is needed for entry to the Great Lawn. Students can find more information about performers, food and activities here.
Torch
Torch Photos / Nicholas St. Cyr
Photo Courtesy / YouTube Toosii
Williams
Tea Mania New York Opens On 164th Street
Prominent items on the menu include bubble tea and croffles.
Tea Mania New York located on 82-27 164th St — about a 15-minute walk from Gate 6 — has opened for a “soft launch” this past week. The grand opening is scheduled for April 12.
A soft opening means that the business is open for a trial run, providing time and space for adjustments and improvements after interacting with customers and the local community.
“I was excited because it is a brand new store,” Malissa Ocasio, the general manager said. “Everything’s brand new so nobody has ever touched it, nobody ever used it– so we get to be the first ones to do it.”
Ocasio explained that her team has been helping the owner build the business up by talking to customers and explaining what the location offers.
Tea Mania has a halal menu and serves croffles, a croissant and waffle pastry combination.
Tea Mania currently offers a 10% discount to Queens Hospital Center staff and employees of the elementary school next door.
Ocasio explained that discounts get customers excited and keep them coming back. She is proud that the business has managed to obtain “a few regulars” within the past week.
“These businesses bring so much character to the neighborhood and give students something new to look forward to,” Claudia Obucho-
wicz, a senior at St. John’s University said.
“I really think offering a St. John’s student discount would go a long way as it would make it easier for us [St. John’s students] to support them regularly, and in return, we’d get cozy spaces to study, relax and connect.”
Tea Mania also has a location in Ozone Park. Their menu can be viewed here.
Chipotle Location Opens Blocks From St. John’s University Queens Campus
How does this new dining option impact University students?
alexandra prettitore | april 16, 2024
Chipotle is one of the largest chain restaurants in the United States, with over 3,000 domestic locations. On April 17, a new Chipotle is set to open within walking distance of St. John’s University on Union Turnpike, just outside of Gate 4.
This offers students a new convenient meal stop, which can be accessible by foot or delivery with their free Grub Hub+ subscription.
Although there are several dining options on-campus — including Pico Mesa, a Mexican-American restaurant with a similar model to Chipotle — many students expressed excitement about the upcoming opening.
Sophomore Natasha Mungai told The Torch she has been anticipating the grand opening, explaining that “[her] friends and [her] go to TJ Maxx near campus, so [she] has been checking to see if Chipotle is open.” The company’s sign on the front of the storefront has left many University students excitedly awaiting its Thursday opening.
Mungai said she “would definitely go there during school,” and that she is “more than excited” to visit during breaks between classes. She is willing to spend extra money to treat herself.
Freshman Benjamin Lee agreed, citing the close proximity. He said he will “definitely be ordering since it is so close.” He jokingly added that “anything is better than Monty’s,” affirming that many students are willing to go off-campus to obtain their favorite meals. Some students, like sophomore Sabrina Schaefer, would rather
stick to on-campus eateries.
She expressed that Chipotle is “a little out of the way, so chances are slim [she’d] go there.” The convenience of staying on University grounds trumps the allure of the popular chain restaurant for Schaefer, revealing that despite its strong reputation among college students, “she isn’t a huge fan.”
Although some students are not buzzing about the new Chipotle location, it is still bound to receive a lot of business from the University community due to its convenience and menu.
Torch Photo / Olivia Rainson
Malak kasseM | april 12, 2025
Torch Photo / Malak Kassem
Torch Photo / Alexandra Prettitore
University Hosts First Blazing Barbecue Brawl
Grill masters from six schools competed for the championship belt.
Nicholas st cyr | april 24, 2025
The University’s Residence Village was home to the first Blazing Barbecue Brawl hosted by St. John’s Dining on April 22, from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. “The Ultimate BBQ Competition” featured a live DJ, backyard games, desserts and, of course, an assortment of barbecue dishes.
Grill masters from Quinnipiac, Trinity, Hofstra, Suny Old Westbury, Pace University, Chartwells Higher Education and St. John’s were tasked with making a small barbecue menu to serve judges and students. Montgoris Dining Hall was closed for lunch so many students filled the Residence Village Path to enjoy the nice weather and festivities.
Students used their meal swipes to receive a punch card that was valid at the six different barbecue stations. Attendees without a meal plan had to pay a fee of less than $15 to participate in the barbecue. At each station students were served meat and side dishes.
“It’s amazing I see the whole campus is out on the strip, everybody has food,” sophomore Elisha Adams said, showing the overall positive reception from guests. “The trash is empty, no wasted food over here.”
Sophomore Pamela Collado reiterated these sentiments. “Good vibes, I really like the energy, I am not someone who really likes the heat but I am here and I like it.”
Some stations also served desserts. “Best thing I had was this campfire s’mores cookie… it was really sweet, gooey, and yummy” Collado told the Torch.
Towards the end of the event, winners were announced for the six various categories and the overall winner.
There was a trophy for brisket, ribs, chicken, pork, side dish and a
people’s choice award. The blind judges awarded best chicken and ribs to Quinnipiac and Trinity. St. John’s won every other award and were crowned the overall winners of the Ultimate BBQ Competition.
The University’s barbecue team leader Chef Josh spoke about his passion for cooking after the big win. “I love to barbecue. I have done competitions before, just the planning, the execution, the whole process of it is just the best feeling” Josh said.
The University hopes to make the Blazing Barbecue Brawl an annual event on campus.
Stormin’ Loud Committee Announces Information for ‘The Best Last Day Ever’
The ultimate end-of-the-year festival for St. John’s students is on May 2.
Nicholas st cyr | april 11, 2025
St. John’s University sent an email to all students containing initial information about Stormin’ Loud. The end-of-the-year festival will take place at the Great Lawn on May 2.
The Resident Students Association, the Student Programming Board and Haraya: The Pan African Students’ Coalition worked in collaboration with Student Government Inc. and the Stormin’ Loud Committee to organize “The Best Last Day Ever.”
The exciting night featuring carnival rides, a vendors market, food trucks and live performances returns to campus for the fourth straight year. General Admissions tickets are free for St. John’s students, but students have the opportunity to amplify their experience with the Purple, Black or Gold ticket packages for an increased fee.
For $20 Purple package holders receive a swag bag and two guaranteed food vouchers. Those who purchase the $40 Black ticket package receive a larger merchandise bundle as well as a fast pass to skip lines for rides and food. The $70 Gold ticket includes the largest merchandise package featuring a Stormin’ Loud branded hoodie as well as the fast pass. Ticket sales and non-student guest registration run from April 10 at 10 a.m. to April 29 at 4 p.m. at the Campus Concierge located in the D’Angelo Center.
The first 1,000 Johnnies to redeem their tickets are placed in a raffle for an exclusive Stormin’ Loud merchandise pack. Current students, alumni, accepted students and any registered guests will be treated to glow in the dark arcade games and performances from student organizations, local artists in addition to headliners who are yet to be announced.
Torch Photo / Nicholas St. Cyr
Torch Photo / James Williams
Embracing Neurodiversity: Spreading Awareness and Creating Community
This sophomore is working to form camaraderie for neurodivergent students.
AlexAndrA Prettitore | APril 17, 2025
During April, National Autism Acceptance Month is celebrated in the United States to raise awareness and foster support for autistic individuals. St. John’s University offers those with Autism and those on other mental health spectrums resources and accommodations through Student Accessibility Services. These are helpful in an academic sense, but there still seemed to be a lack of community for autistic and other neurodivergent individuals.
Sophomore speech pathology and audiology major Colleen Murphy noticed this absence in the University, so she decided to take initiative and create this space. She is currently in the process of being SGI approved for her new student organization called Embracing Neurodiversity.
When asked why she started the organization, she explained: “I’m trying to bring together a community of neurodivergent individuals, and trying to promote acceptance and resources for people who want to understand what neurodiversity is.” Through this format, she hopes to ensure that the voices of neurodivergent people are understood and validated.
Murphy added that she was motivated to begin Embracing Neurodiversity in part due to personal experiences, explaining that “[she] is a neurodivergent individual, and [she] wants to help out others who need this safe haven.”
Although it is National Autism Acceptance Month, she seeks to provide support for “not just those with autism, but with other forms of neurodivergence such as ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Tourette’s Syn-
drome and Down Syndrome.” Murphy’s priority is inclusion as she builds Embracing Neurodiversity.
As of now, she has hosted the first general body meeting as she works to spread the word on social media and become fully approved. In the Fall 2025 semester, she hopes to expand to more elaborate, off-campus events, revealing that she’s “planning on trying to find neurodivergent acceptance events, maybe in the City,” to connect club members with a wider network of understanding.
Murphy is also involved in the National Speech Language and Hearing Association, American Sign Language Club, Neuroscience Society and the Student Ambassador Program, highlighting both her dedication to the University community, and passion for promoting accessibility and kindness to all.
She believes that beginning Embracing Neurodiversity fulfills this goal, expressing that the ultimate objective is to “improve how we see neurodivergent individuals to make a difference” to ensure that they are “treated like everyone else.”
The Torch asked Murphy if she had any advice for incoming University students who are neurodivergent. She offered encouragement, emphasizing that there are “plenty of opportunities and organizations,” and “to reach out with questions” if they feel that Embracing Neurodiversity is the community they need.
Murphy plans on increasing the amount of events her organization hosts next semester. Check out Embracing Neurodiversity’s Instagram for updates.
Study Supremacy: On-Campus or Home?
Students give their perspectives on where they prefer to do their schoolwork.
MicAh GrAyson | APril 13, 2025
Finals season is almost here. A time full of sleepless nights, last-minute mind cramming and feelings of stress that do their best to derail your whole day. But what is the best environment for schoolwork and preparation?
There are generally two options for St. John’s students: on campus, or at home/in your dorm. The Torch asked students their preference and to end the debate for study supremacy.
Catherine Russo, a first-year grad student studying psychology, prefers the comfort of her home.
“Sometimes it can get a little loud,” she said, referring to academic halls such as the D’Angelo Center (DAC).
Undergraduate students share similar sentiments, as Lassell Duke-Sample, a freshman journalism major, echoed Russo.
“[At home] it’s more quiet, easier to focus,” he explained.
The hustle and bustle of an academic hall can be distracting. Walk and talk conversations, club booths promoting their services and bake sales are just a few occurrences that contribute to the hectic environment. This contrasts the calm, cozy atmosphere of a dorm or bedroom, which makes studying more ideal for many students.
According to The Universities and College Admissions Service article titled “How Your Surroundings Affect the Way You Study,” author Ells Hendrix explains how mess and clutter can harm the process.
“Disorganized and messy spaces can create feelings of stress and anxiety, which will have an obvious negative effect on your learning,” Hendrix said..
The ideal scenario of a quiet bedroom sounds good on paper, but work must be done to achieve that reality.
Family members often distract through direct conversation or their personal endeavors around the house. If you didn’t receive enough sleep the previous night, even a “quick” nap can turn into hours of missed study time.
Some students, such as freshman Keira Fleckenstein, prefer academic halls because of a lack of motivation to be productive at home.
“When I’m home, I don’t feel like doing anything,” she said.
Places on campus such as the D’AngeloCenter or the Library can harvest an environment more fruitful for schoolwork due to the lack of readily accessible distractions. There’s no urge to pick up the Xbox controller, nor any worries that your sibling will come into your room unannounced.
In reality, there truly isn’t a “best” place to study. It depends on your personality and what you individually prefer.
Final Exam preparation is a multi-step process that requires extensive practice and repetition. But if you find a study location that works for you, everything else gets a whole lot easier.
Torch Photo/ Alexandra Prettitore
Understanding Attachment Styles
Your childhood experiences may be affecting your love life, here’s why.
Hunnie Liu | ApriL 21, 2025
Maybe you distance yourself after finally getting to know someone, or you’re constantly seeking reassurance. These behaviors can often be traced back to childhood and the adult figures who shaped your life.
Attachment theory, first founded by Psychiatrist and Psychoanalyst John Bowley, describes the relationship between early primary caregivers, and a person’s emotional and social development later in life.
Understanding your attachment style can improve the quality of your relationships — romantic or otherwise. Recognizing and approaching your attachment style properly can make you a more self-aware partner, resulting in healthier relationships.
Anxious/Preoccupied
“I need others to feel safe, but they might leave me.”
People with anxious attachment often crave deep intimacy and constant reassurance. Even in stable relationships, they may fear abandonment or rejection. It’s common for them to overanalyze texts, feel hurt by small slights or worry that they’re “not good enough” for their partner.
These behaviors often stem from inconsistent caregiving during childhood. They may have felt that love and attention were often unpredictable. These experiences taught them to become hyper-sensitive and hold tightly to relationships to feel safe.
Anxious attachment may appear as people-pleasing, heightened emotional responses or difficulty being alone. Developing internal security, along with building trust in both oneself and the relationship is key.
Solo activities such as taking yourself on a movie date can be very rewarding for those with anxious attachment. Taking intentional time alone helps build self-reliance and eases the need for constant external reassurance.
Anxious attachment often shows up through habits like compulsively checking messages or scrolling through social media. Try turning off
notifications and setting time limits to create healthier boundaries.
Avoidant/Dismissive
“I can only rely on myself. Others are a threat to my autonomy.”
Avoidantly attached individuals tend to value independence and freedom above all else. They may struggle with emotional intimacy and often feel overwhelmed when others get too close or too vulnerable.
Their caregivers may have been emotionally distant, unavailable or overly critical. As a result, these individuals learned to suppress their emotional needs, sometimes appearing aloof or disconnected in relationships.
Avoidant attachment can present itself as commitment issues, avoiding vulnerability and becoming overly self-reliant. Many avoidants struggle to label emotions or understand their needs. Journaling can be a great start to practicing vulnerability with yourself first.
Creative outlets like art and music can also serve as a bridge to explore your inner world and reach emotions that are difficult to access. Try expressing your mood through abstract art or curating playlists that match specific emotions
Disorganized/Fearful
“I want love, but I don’t know how to trust.”
Disorganized attachment is often the most complex and emotionally intense. It is a simultaneous fear and longing for closeness. These individuals may oscillate between seeking connection and pushing others away. This pattern stems from early trauma, abuse or neglect. Their caregiver may have been both a source of comfort and fear, creating deep confusion around what love feels like — and whether it’s ever truly safe.
This may show up as emotional volatility, mistrust or self-sabotaging behavior. These individuals can benefit from learning emotional regulation skills and understanding that love can be safe.
Try creating a visual collage that reflects the kind of love, connection and emotional safety
you wish to invite into your life. This can serve as a gentle reminder of your intentions.
You can also turn baths or showers into a calming ritual by using soothing scents like lavender or eucalyptus, dim the lights and play gentle music to create comfort.
Secure
“I am lovable. others can be trusted.”
A secure attachment style is considered the healthiest model for relationships, but it’s not to be confused with perfection. People with this style experience conflict just like everyone else.
What sets them apart is their emotional intelligence. They are comfortable with intimacy, clear about their needs and able to trust others without becoming overly dependent or emotionally withdrawn.
Emotionally responsive and consistently supportive caregivers help to form a stable, confident foundation for adult relationships.
In practice, secure attachment looks like mutual respect, open communication and balanced emotional support.
It’s important to note that attachment styles are not fixed and you may find yourself identifying with more than one attachment style.
Just like you grow and change, your patterns in relationships can change too.
Mimi
PPhoto Courtesy / Youtube Christian Lue
Where and Where Not to Eat at St. John’s
Students candidly reveal the best and worst food on campus.
Although St. John’s University is largely a commuter school, with 75% of students living off-campus, there are still numerous dining options available, ranging from a classic all-you-can-eat dining hall to quick coffee stops.
There are three major dining locations: Montgoris Dining Hall, Marillac Food Court and the Law School Cafe and Sidebar, which are mainly supplied by the catering company Chartwells. There are also chain restaurants, including Starbucks, Einstein Bagels and Taco Bell.
The food on campus has mediocre reviews, with an average rating of 3.0 on the school section of Rate My Professor, a sentiment that is echoed by current University students. According to the students The Torch spoke to, the dining offerings can range from great to sometimes sickening.
Montgoris Dining Hall is the only official dining hall on-campus, a typical all-you-caneat location where resident students can utilize their meal swipes and the source of many mixed opinions from students.
Javier Fajardo, a University sophomore told The Torch that he had “a pleasant experience” at Montgoris Dining Hall for the first few weeks of the Fall 2024 semester, but as the academic year progressed, “the quality of the food definitely went down.” He emphasized the inconsistency of the selection, claiming that it can be an “8/10 on a great day, and a 4/10 on a poor one.”
AlexAndrA Prettitore | APril 10, 2025
Fajardo alleges that the decline “culminated at its worst point when [he] caught food poisoning in the beginning of the Spring 2025 semester.”
Although this was a one-time occurrence, and it cannot be confirmed that it was directly related to the food at Montgoris Dining Hall, this incident highlights the apprehension some students have about their offerings.
Freshman Tiffany Chan has had less extreme experiences at Montgoris Dining Hall, stating that although there are occasionally “inedible” options, the food at the dining hall and on-campus as a whole, are “varied and overall really good,” according to Chan.
Freshman Lauren Palma agrees, adding that the “variety of cuisines makes the food on-campus enjoyable as there’s something for everyone.” She even recommends Montgoris Dining Hall for lunch, in addition to Marillac Food Court.
Chan also enjoys the restaurants that are located in Marillac Food Court, where she specifically loves Freshens for its healthy menu items, including the açai bowl. She also “sometimes treats [herself] with food from the law school,” which although not included in meal plans, is still open to undergraduate students.
After Fajardo’s questionable experience at Montgoris Dining Hall, he suggests visiting off-campus locations to splurge: “there is a Halal truck called Mi Amor that resides outside of Gate 6, although it may be an
overcharge.” For those looking to stay within budget, he recommends using premium swipes to “go to Marillac twice a day free of surcharge.”
The opinions of these students highlight the mixed quality of the food at the University. The only way to find a favorite is to try the various options, and to hope they all suit your preferences — and stomach.
Photo Courtesy / YouTube ActionKid
Torch Photo / Alexandra Prettitore
Photo Courtesy / YouTube FreshensHQ
Students’ Favorite Food Option on Campus:
‘A Minecraft Movie’ Crafts Meaning From Mayhem
No story? No problem. Creativity carries the film. (Spoilers for “A Minecraft Movie” ahead)
Isabella
athanasIou | aprIl 9, 2025
One of April’s biggest box office releases is based on a video game with no plot, dialogue or defined characters. “A Minecraft Movie,” released worldwide on April 4, builds a chaotic story from the game’s blank slate. It is hard to make a movie out of something that was never meant to be one, but the challenge is exactly what makes the film work. Like the game itself, it creates something out of nothing.
Controversy has followed the film since the first official trailer release on Sept. 4, when fans quickly flooded social media with criticism, calling the tone off, the pacing chaotic and the characters disconnected from the spirit of the game. Jack Black, who plays the game’s default protagonist Steve, addressed the backlash in an interview with GamesRadar+.
“I mean I was surprised because I loved the trailer,” Black said. “There are always so many people that are sensitive to everything you put out there. I love the movie, but now I don’t know, let’s see what everyone else thinks because I don’t trust myself anymore.”
When the film was officially released, early reviews were just as skeptical as the online buzz had hinted. The Telegraph gave the film two stars and The Guardian gave it one star due to its lack of depth. Despite the uproar, the film has since become the highest grossing video game adaption of all time.
With a production budget of $150 million, “A Minecraft Movie” had a lot to prove. Just like the game it’s based on, it exceeded expectations by building something massive from very little. The film brought in over $300 million globally in its opening weekend alone, making it not only a commercial success but a creative one.
The film includes a few musical numbers, which was not surprising with Jack Black in the lead role. These sporadic segments honestly work better than they should. They come out of nowhere, almost completely unprompted, but the timing is so sharp that they end up being some of
the funniest moments in the film.
The songs are not necessarily trying to be serious, as they’re placed within the plot to be entertaining, but they really do deliver. It’s these unexpected moments that keep the film from ever feeling boring.
The film throws around Minecraft lingo fast and often, while Black delivers his lines with so much exaggerated enthusiasm that it feels like he’s in on a joke no one else is fully in on. At times, it plays like sketch comedy, and that self-awareness surprisingly works in its favor. It doesn’t try to be something it’s not. Instead, it leans into the weirdness of adapting a game with no set story and has fun with it.
There are definitely plot holes throughout the film, some biomes don’t line up, a few things happen for no clear reason — the ‘man sandwich’ segment — and the pacing bounces around. But if you lower your game-centered expectations and stop looking for pixel-perfect logic, it works.
As a family movie, it’s creative, self-aware and surprisingly entertaining. Like its source material, the film is more about the experience than the structure. You have to let it be what it is.
Industry analysts did not expect the film to pull in such high numbers. Steve Buck, chief strategy officer at EntTelligence — a company that tracks box office data and audience behavior — noted the turnout was beyond what anyone predicted.
“It has definitely overperformed all industry projections,” Buck said, adding that the film “hit with all audiences.”
The film closes with a short end-credits scene that introduces Alex, another main character from the game. The moment is quick but deliberate, hinting that this may be just the beginning for the Minecraft universe on screen. It is a subtle setup that suggests more movies could be on the way.
“A Minecraft Movie” is now playing in theaters.
Torch Photo / Sara Kiernan
Photo Courtesy / YouTube Warner Bros.
The USC Ice Bucket Challenge is Becoming Performative
As
this trend has taken over social media, its true purpose has been lost.
Many have experienced déjà vu in the last week as the ice bucket challenge, which originally went viral in 2014 as a way to raise money for ALS research, has made a massive return.
The ice bucket challenge was reintroduced in the form of the USC Speak Your Mind Challenge by students at the University of South Carolina to spread awareness for mental health struggles and to spur donations for the nonprofit Active Minds.
It has made a notable splash on TikTok and Instagram among high school and college students, as the primary objective of the challenge is to nominate friends to also participate online. It is rooted in positive intentions, but many participants haven’t fully embraced or understood the true purpose of the trend.
The challenge was created to raise funds for the Active Minds organization, but in practice, it seems that many people haven’t provided a link to donate in their videos. In fact, despite the internet craze, the Active Minds organization has not yet reached its goal of $500,000.
This performative aspect suggests that awareness might’ve not truly been raised to the ex-
AlexAndrA Prettitore | APril 27, 2025
tent the creators of USC “Speak Your Mind” had hoped.
If the issue isn’t fully being addressed in these videos, how much of an impact can be made?
Additionally, the structure of the challenge seems counterintuitive to the mental health cri-
sis. When the ice bucket challenge was used for ALS research, it was effective since it mirrored the sensation that individuals with the disease feel. Some advocates for the original challenge were even upset that it was being replicated for a separate cause.
But, when it comes to the USC version of the trend, it could actually harm those struggling with mental illness — since the nominating process is based on social circles, those who are isolated would end up being left out of the challenge, in turn possibly harming their mental health. The trend could leave young viewers yearning for popularity and acceptance rather than feeling uplifted and understood.
A major problem with internet culture is how social media trends become sources of replication and conformity rather than tools to spread a meaningful message. The USC Speak Your Mind challenge encapsulates this idea; originally meant to garner attention for mental health disorders, it has ultimately become about soaking in water and, more importantly, views and likes.
The origins of and participating in the trend are inherently positive. But when those posting with the hashtag “USCMind” do not speak about the deeper meaning of the challenge, or provide further information to donate, it becomes performative.
The Commuter School: An Opportunity for Local Integration
The commuter school allows outsiders to witness what locals are really like.
About 75% of St. John’s students commute to the Queens campus. According to a Forbes report, about 80% of the student body are New York state residents. Additionally, 80% of living alumni reside within the New York City metropolitan area.
While being a commuter student can often feel like more time is spent on the road than on campus, it also means that you can interact with New York as a New Yorker.
As a student who attended another city school before transferring to St. John’s, many activities felt dull and overly tourist-oriented. After transferring to St. John’s, I felt that I had the free will to pursue different areas of New York–well beyond the cliches like Fifth Avenue or the Statue of Liberty. I no longer had to pretend to listen to an out-of-stater telling me the best route uptown– I went to high school a few blocks away for goodness sake.
Many commuter students tend to develop friendships with other commuter students. Un-
derstanding each other’s experiences and forming that bond is important, but it also might mean heading home together right after class to avoid rush hour traffic.
While the lure of empty roads after an early afternoon class might be difficult to turn away from, there are opportunities to socialize at student-run events on occasional evenings and weekends. Many on-campus cultural groups including the Arab Student Association, the Balkan Club and Haraya run formal dinners and get-togethers.
Many students on campus are from Queens, “the world’s borough”— one of the most ethnically diverse places in the world.
According to the U.S. Census, more than 47% of residents are foreign-born. From Woodside’s “Little Manila” through Elmhurst’s “Thai Town” to Astoria’s “Little Egypt,” locals tend to branch out internationally. There is also ample diversity stemming from “over 44 states and 119 countries,” that make up St. John’s student
body.
A 2001 New York Times article summarized it well, “On any weekday night, the parking lots of St. John’s University in Jamaica, Queens start emptying as the commuter students -- the Long Islanders and the residents of Brooklyn and Queens who have historically defined St. John’s -- begin their journeys home.”
The article announced the newest edition of its time: St. John’s residence village.
While I have spent a few long evenings at St. John’s, it definitely isn’t “very quiet” as former University president Rev. Donald J. Harrington described it about 24 years ago. There are students strolling around, waiting for Ubers, or heading to Monty’s these days during the early hours of the night.
However, I also imagine that many students envision their college years to be a little livelier–but I don’t think that’s the experience St. John’s always aimed for, although that might be slowly changing.
Photo Courtesy / YouTube POLITICO
MAlAk kAsseM | APril 28, 2025
Photo Courtesy / YouTube Tech Muster
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Girl World: A Society Devoid of Criticism
Carlyann Carey | april 13, 2025
TikToker and OnlyFans model Kendel Kay moved to Puerto Rico in 2021 to live full-time with her boyfriend, Luke Lintz. After a few months, Kay quit her job to spend more time cooking, traveling and cleaning for and with Luke.
Her TikToks, which are full of videos of her romanticising domesticity, have captions like “doing girly things all day >” Kay and Lintz broke up in 2023, and since then the model has been speaking out about the harsh reality of their relationship.
“It’s definitely risky to enter this lifestyle if you don’t have a safety net to fall back on,” she said to The Sun.
Her whirlwind relationship, posts and a change of heart post-breakup are giving viewers whiplash. After the drama divided the audience–with one half of her comment section advocating for her financial independence and the other half applauding her stepping into her “feminine energy,”—the debate was finally put to rest.
There are other conversations, too, particularly surrounding sex work. Due to layoffs and less access to livable income, the platform OnlyFans skyrocketed, allowing sex workers more agency and individualism in their work but also normalizing a line of work that often comes without legal protections.
Girls don’t know what to make of these two very different concepts. It’s considered “anti-feminist” for a girl not to support another girl in her choices. In a world where individual choice is law, it feels wrong to criticize the decisions of women like Kay and other OnlyFans creators.
“Girls support girls” is a trending phrase on social media. The
concept is supposed to create a digestible movement for all women to be a part of, regardless of what kind of lives they lead. Trad wives, “girl bosses” and everyone in between can participate.
In contrast, being told you’re not a “girl’s girl” is like being ousted from a club everyone is involved in. To be a girl’s girl is to never question or doubt your fellow woman or the things typically labeled as feminine. This can be anything from being the “other woman” to not liking the color pink. It’s made to include all girls in feminism but oftentimes does the opposite. If you’re not a girl’s girl, you’re ostracized.
This is what a world devoid of honest criticism looks like. If we fail to comply with the norms, we are exiled from girl world.
Post-feminism, a term implying that the goals of feminism have already been achieved, has convinced us to stick together, no matter the cost. Women can stay at home as girlfriends and post OnlyFans content when they turn 18, and it’s hard to blame them. But this line of thought doesn’t allow us to think deeper.
Why are women turning towards domesticity? How have rising poverty rates popularized this? How has it popularized sex work? Do these women have legal protections when their partner’s are their employers?
Blind faith in one another keeps us reliant on a system that is still working against us. We do not have to villainize each other but conversation, research and criticism can allow for more progress both in a societal standpoint and legal one. We don’t have to swallow girlhood like a pill, we can make it something much more meaningful.
Red House Brings NYFW to Queens
The annual student-run event showcased the minds of St. John’s fashionable.
Parker Songco | aPril 15, 2025
A selection of St. John’s most stylish and creative talents were put on display as student organization Red House hosted its annual fashion show on April 13, titled “The Empire State of Fashion ,” in the D’Angelo Center (DAC) Ballroom.
This weekend’s show marked the grand finale of Red House Fashion Week (RHFW), a week-long celebration of student style and creativity. In the days leading up to the show, Red House hosted events like a thrift market on April 8 and a fashion industry panel on April 10, emulating events to give students a bite-sized, St. John’s-style version of New York Fashion Week (NYFW).
“We wanted to give St. John’s University their own fashion week,” said president of Red House, Madison Coombs.. “A lot of times people never get to experience going to a huge fashion show, especially in New York where it’s like the city of fashion.”
Red House transformed the fourth floor of DAC into something straight off a Manhattan invite list, complete with a red carpet, flashing cameras and towers of sparkling cider. Students and parents alike posed for photos under the spotlights, creating a setting that allowed anyone to feel l a part of something elevated.
Opening the show was a high-intensity performance by the L.I.V.E Dance Crew, who stormed the runway to Lady Gaga’s “Abracadabra,” raising the energy in the room before a single model had even walked.
From there, the runway turned into a canvas for seven collections from student designers, each bringing a distinct voice and vision to the stage.
“MYSTERYDESTROYSPASSION” by Matthew De Prado
This opening collection quickly captivated the audience’s energy and attention, with MDP’s gritty, graffiti-soaked vision of custom denim-heavy outfits, spray can accessories and hand-knitted scarves and balaclavas. It felt like an ode to underground New York, with chants of “MDP! MDP!” echoing, turning the ballroom into a fashion riot.
“Work In Progress” by Lucien Sagar
Sagar’s line offered a more introspective approach, taking inspiration from “everyday life” and flipping it into a refreshingly loose and flowy take on formalwear. Custom patchwork, oversized silhouettes and calculated distressing gave the pieces a handmade and worn-out look.
“Apathy SS25” by Gary Smith
Using “clothing as a canvas,” Gary Smith’s line paired distressed streetwear and chain accessories to give a utilitarian post-apocalyptic look. His pieces felt like a response to burnout – tough, torn, but still moving forward. “Apathy” was the title, but the looks spoke volumes.
“MISSMIAROSE AW ‘25” by Mia Rose
Mia Rose took the audience somewhere strange and spooky with a collection that “plays into maximalism and gives garments a second chance.” Ominous music echoed as models rocked colored spiky hairdos. Zombie-like struts, Halloween-inspired makeup and Walkmans and ocarinas as accessories turned the runway into a fashion fever dream stitched together in a haunted thrift store.
“Living Dead Girl” by Meg and Porche Lynn
Continuing the horror-inspired theme, this collection explored how women are portrayed in horror cinema. From a clown clutching a balloon to a model dragging a mirror like a leash, it was a theatrical experience that ended in a bloodcurdling scream from one of the models.
“The Wanderer: A Homage To Home” by Leilani Bell
Leilani Bell’s collection stood out for its emotional depth and polished presentation. With nods to her hometown of Chicago — a metal instrumental to Kanye West’s “Off The Grid” and the city’s flag draped over a model — “The Wanderer” balanced bold proportions with quiet intention.
Before the final collection, Red House opened the runway to everyone. Students, parents and other guests took turns giving their best runway pose and strut as the crowd cheered them on, creating a finale that felt more like a block party than a traditional fashion show.
“Satire” by Elwood Roberts
Closing out the night was a collection from Red House’s very own Vice President, Elwood Roberts. This collection blended “diverse cultural influences” with a minimalist edge, sleek proportions and tote bags full of flowers.
The collection was accompanied by an onstage vocal performance by TJ Mosby, modeling and singing at the same time, creating an engaging and intimate environment.
“We were able to create music specifically designed for the show.” Mosby said. “It was amazing to see my work come to life and have it enjoyed by the crowd.”
Kika Agboifo, junior and Red House Representative, who walked in “The Wanderer” collection, said the runway was the best part of her day. “It was a lot of fun, even though it was really short… it took a long time to get there.”
Agboifo also noted how much work happens behind the scenes. “Planning starts literally at the beginning of the year, September or August... So you really have to give it up to the E-board members.” That behind-the-scenes hustle is what made the night feel so special. An event planned by students, for students, that didn’t just celebrate fashion, but the people making it happen.
For Red House president Madison Coombs, the show’s theme, “The Empire State of Fashion” was more than just a name. “It’s just nice to be in the heart of Queens, showing that these are New York people who do fashion,” she said. “Each line is so different, but it captures the essence and talent of their designers.”
Red House didn’t just bring New York Fashion Week to campus, they proved that the spirit of NYFW was already here.
Photo Courtesy / YouTube Warner Bros.
Torch Photo / Celina Mullady
‘What Was That’ is an Exploration of the Past Lorde has mastered the art of nostalgia.
| april 27, 2025
Lorde returned with her new single “What Was That” on April 24 after a four-year break since her last solo release in 2021. This new single departs from the present and returns listeners to the singer’s sophomore album, “Melodrama,” released in 2017. Lorde takes listeners on a journey through her vivid memories of a past relationship that continues to invade her thoughts.
To welcome the new single, Lorde performed the track in Washington Square Park on April 22 after the New York City Police
Department shut down her first attempt because she had failed to acquire a permit. Once she returned, the singer lip-synced to her new track while surrounded by a crowd of fans
The track begins with a sense of loneliness while Lorde expresses how she misses her old partner. She sings, “Step out into the street, alone in the sea / It comes over me / Oh, yeah I’m missing you.”
The single slowly builds into a realization that this past relationship was never fulfilling, provoking Lorde to sing “Since I was seventeen, I gave you everything / Now we wake from a dream, well baby, what was that?” The singer expresses the familiar feeling of realizing a relationship wasn’t as satisfying as it was thought to be when it was happening.
“What Was That” perfectly embodies electropop, sustaining the sound from “Melodrama.” Not only is this single reminiscent of past albums, but it also provides an exciting new vibe for Lorde’s upcoming album. The single’s release has left fans excited for more, with many taking to social media to express their excitement.
Lorde also released a music video along with the single. The video shows the singer traveling around New York City, footage from her event in Washington Square Park and the singer climbing up a sewer.
Lorde’s upcoming album has yet to be announced, but considering the recent release of “What Was That,” an album is sure to be on its way.
‘Sunrise on the Reaping:’ A Dystopian Reality
The novel acts as a warning, alerting readers of authoritarian governments.
The beloved dystopian series, “The Hunger Games,” by Suzanne Collins, has returned with the series’ fifth novel, “Sunrise on the Reaping.” The novel is a prequel and follows Haymitch Abernathy — a mentor of District 12 — in the Quarter Quell (the 50th annual Hunger Games).
The novel takes place twenty-four years before the original series in the fictional country of Panem, theorized to be located in North America. Panem is made up of 12 districts, with each one having a specific trade ranging from fishing to coal mining.
The novel begins on July 4, which happens to be both Haymitch’s birthday and the reaping day, where a boy and girl are chosen from each district to be in the annual Hunger Games.
The story follows Haymitch and his fellow tributes in the events leading up to the games, during them and after. Collins also provides background for other characters seen throughout the series, like Effie Trinket and Plutarch Heavensbee.
At 382 pages, “Sunrise on the Reaping” gives fans the much-needed backstory of Haymitch. Throughout “The Hunger Games,” glimpses of his story are hinted at but never
Celina Mullady | april 17,
2025
fully explored.
But in this novel, Collins shares his inner monologue, highlighting his wants, needs and most of his fears. “Sunrise on the Reaping” dives directly into his past, immersing readers in his psyche.
Haymitch is a complex character, making him a fan favorite. This novel highlights how Haymitch’s trauma from the Hunger Games caused him to be the person he is in the later novels and films — a divisive alcoholic.
Most of all, the novel warns readers of an authoritarian government plagued with censorship and propaganda.
Throughout the novel, there are instances of silencing people who speak out against the Capitol and its politics, showing how easily citizens of Pamen can be controlled. Later in the story, it’s revealed that the Capitol picks and chooses what footage of the games to show and which to destroy. Collins carefully highlights censorship and propaganda, showing readers that it’s not a faraway idea and could become a reality.
The novel is filled with heartbreaking moments, transporting readers back to the original books. Collins creates the classic Hunger Games atmosphere, with suspense and despair
growing in each chapter. For fans of the series, “Sunrise on the Reaping” perfectly expands the past stories and provides the much-needed context missing from the original novels.
A film adaptation is set to be released in Nov. 2026.
Celina Mullady
Photo Courtesy / YouTube Lorde
Torch Photo / Celina Mullady
‘Sinners:’ A Rhythmic Revelation
Michael B. Jordan stars as twin brothers in the vampiric and musical thriller.
James Williams | april 28, 2025
“Sinners,” one of 2025’s biggest blockbusters and the newest film from director Ryan Coogler was released on April 18.
Set in the Mississippi Delta in 1932, the height of the Jim Crow era, the story follows ambitious twin brothers “Smoke” and “Stack” (both played by Michael B. Jordan). The brothers return to their hometown and attempt to create a “juke joint” among a backdrop of racial tensions and supernatural threats.
Once the grand opening of the club commences in the second act, the entire film becomes captive to the confines of the juke joint. As the characters become trapped on the claustrophobic dance floor, the film shows its colors as a love letter to music.
Through the character of Sammie, Smoke and Stack’s younger cousin played excellently by Miles Caton in his acting debut, Coogler explores the power of blues and soul music. Long, unbroken stretches of Sammie and the juke joint’s band performing a blues tune occupy the film’s first half, cultivating in a beautiful sequence where the past and future of music collides in soulful euphoria.
“There’s also this metaphor for artistic sacrifice, for how an oppressive system can dehumanize people and how people experiencing that dehumanization can rage against it through art,” Coogler said in an interview with RogerEbert.com. “That rage develops so that they can affirm their humanity.”
“I realized that many of these characters, whom you hopefully grow to love and know throughout the first part of this film–without spoiling too much–most meet a supernaturally violent fate. I wanted the midpoint to balance that out and give them not just hope but a cosmic win,” Coogler said regarding the musical sequences’ narrative purpose in the story.
As the film delves into this supernatural violence, the large ensemble is anchored by Jordan’s dual performance as two identical but very different twins. While this exceptional performance isn’t anything out of the ordinary for the superstar, his fifth collaboration with Coogler
Bernie Sanders
marks the first time where a film relies solely on his shoulders and Jordan delivers.
His subtle choices infuse each brother with a distinct personality that separates the two characters, such as Stack’s persistent smile and charm or Smoke’s reserved stoicism.
But Jordan’s best trait as an actor has always been his physicality and when the action heats up, he shines even more. When driving a stake into a vampire’s heart or wielding a tommy gun, his strength as a very physical actor carries the action.
In addition to Jordan’s physical performance, Coogler proves once again to be one of the best modern directors in the action genre. As seen in his “Black Panther” or “Creed” films his mix of long consecutive takes or quick cutting between fights make the action a true spectacle.
Additional artistic choices such as the twin’s stark difference in outfits only add to Jordan’s performance and make it stronger, as do the other incredible costuming decisions made on the rest of the cast.
From the beautiful sets to Oscar winner Ludwig Göransson’s accompanying score, the film is flawless in every aspect of the word. “Sinners” is not only a revival of vampiric cinema but a revelation of what original stories helmed by passionate filmmakers can accomplish.
Brings Politics to Coachella “The Future of America Lies in this Generations Hands”
On Saturday, April 12 the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival became more than a celebration of music, it turned into a platform for political change. Singer/songwriter Clairo, surprised the estimated 125,000 people in the crowd by bringing out Senator Bernie Sanders.
Sanders took center stage and spoke to the younger generation about the need to fight for justice. Here are the takeaways from his speech:
“He thinks that climate change is a hoax. He is dangerously wrong.”
Without directly stating President Donald Trump’s name, Sanders addressed how the ignorance of the current administration is failing the movement to end climate change.
The global climate crisis has become a cornerstone of progressive politics. Sanders demonstrated through his words how the fossil fuel industry is destroying our home. He called attention to how we must speak out against large corporations who are hurting the future of America.
“The future of what happens to America is dependent on your generation.”
Speaking at one of the most popular music festivals, Sanders out-
spokenly called for Generation Z to make a difference by not allowing democracy to be toppled. The youth must be engaged politically and lack of interest in governmental issues will reflect badly in the future.
“Thousands of women and children are being killed.”
Sanders didn’t hold back when addressing the ongoing war in Gaza. Condemning the humanitarian crisis, he has in the past criticized the Israeli government’s actions and labeled Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a war criminal.
He emphasized to the crowd the urgent need for international accountability, citing the devastating loss of civilian lives and the collapse of medical infrastructure.
As he closed his speech, he applauded Clairo for fighting for women’s rights and ended with shoutouts to progressive causes like universal health care and economic justice. By bringing politics to a music festival stage, Sanders reminded young voters that civic engagement doesn’t belong solely in voting booths or political rallies—it belongs everywhere.
Catherine pasCal | april 16, 2025
Photo Courtesy / YouTube Warner Bros.
The Torch's Transfer Tracker
Marksman Oziyah Sellers Joins St. John’s
Stanford’s standout guard will drastically improve the Johnnies’ biggest flaw.
After losing freshman depth pieces Jaiden Glover and Khaman Maker to the transfer portal, Rick Pitino has added another dynamic guard to his offseason haul – this time, Oziyah Sellers is set to solidify the Johnnies’ backcourt, according to Jon Rothstein.
Sellers, Stanford’s second leading scorer at 13.7 points per game on 45% shooting from the field, comes to Queens for his senior year and immediately becomes the best shooter on the roster, an area in which the Johnnies struggled mightily in last season.
Hitting three-pointers at an over 40% clip in back-to-back seasons,
Sellers’ long range shot is his most coveted skill and one that impressed his new Hall of Fame coach during his workout.
Sellers would fit perfectly next to fellow transfer Joson Sanon as the team’s pure shooting guard, or his shooting and scoring capabilities could be utilized off the bench as a spark plug and valuable sixth man.
For the defensive side of the court, the addition of another 6-foot-5 guard continues Pitino’s quest for a lineup full of players with length and range that makes defensive switches a simplicity.
Ian Jackson is the Scorer the Johnnies Needed
The Bronx native’s transfer is Rick Pitino’s most valuable acquisition.
Former five star recruit and potential NBA Draft prospect Ian Jackson is the second-consecutive ACC transfer that has committed to St. John’s, joining Oziyah Sellers for the 2025-2026 campaign, according to Jon Rothstein.
During his freshman season at North Carolina, Jackson averaged 11.9 points per game on 40% shooting from the field while making an efficient 39.5% of three-pointers. Despite these solid scoring numbers, Jackson’s lone year as a Tar Heel was plagued with inconsistencies as his playing time was slashed in the final month of the season and the NCAA Tournament.
But for a dominant stretch in the beginning of the new year, Jackson showed his scoring potential as he recorded 18 points in seven straight games, including a 27 point, six rebound performance against Notre Dame on Jan. 4.
Showcases like this showed Jackson’s ability to score from anywhere on the court and with his superb athleticism and 6-foot-5 frame, he is the perfect ancillary scoring option next to Bryce Hopkins and Zuby Ejiofor.
Dillon Mitchell is Set to Lock up the Perimeter
St. John’s has a new defensive anchor.
Ahead of the April 23 deadline for transfers, Rick Pitino and St. John’s have added one more name to their “mega haul” with Dillon Mitchell joining the Red Storm, per Jon Rothstein.
Now entering his senior year, Mitchell averaged 9.9 points and 6.9 rebounds for the Cincinnati Bearcats last season. In addition to his solid statistics, Mitchell’s greatest value isn’t tracked on the box score with the 6-foot-8 forward being best known for his defensive tenacity. Mitchell averaged a career high two “stocks” (a combination of steals and blocks) per game in his lone season at Cincinnati while wreaking havoc on the perimeter for opposing teams. This production on the
defensive end is what enticed Pitino to bring Mitchell to Queens.
As for Mitchell’s role on St. John’s revamped roster, his athleticism and defensive prowess may land him the starting small forward spot. But if his inability to space the floor is an issue, his physicality would be an invaluable addition to the bench unit.
Mitchell may be the last player to join St. John’s from the transfer portal but he joins new dynamic scoring threats like Bryce Hopkins, Oziyah Sellers and Ian Jackson, with this superb transfer class the team is poised to compete for a national championship.
Torch
Photo / James Williams
James Williams | april 16, 2025
James Williams | april 21, 2025
James Williams | april 23, 2025
Torch Deisgns / Megan Chapman
Get to Know the Newest Johnnies 15 Softball Comes Back on Senior Day
It’s a new era of college basketball.
Programs can now go shopping for stars oozing with NBA potential by spending millions in NIL money provided by countless boosters. St. John’s is one of those programs.
When the Red Storm hired legendary head coach Rick Pitino, it sent shockwaves throughout college basketball. Everyone knew the hall of famer would put the Johnnies back on the map.
Heading into the 2024 season, the Red Storm finished fourth in the transfer portal rankings, propelling them to their first Big East championship since 2000.
But after a disappointing second-round exit to Arkansas in the national tournament, Mike Repole — St. John’s alumnus and top booster — teamed up with Pitino to build a powerhouse.
The 2025 transfer portal officially closed on April 22. No more players can enter, though there is still time for potential transfers to choose new programs. The Red Storm retained just four players from their successful 2024 campaign, but that’s not a problem.
As of April 27, St. John’s ranks No. 1 in the nation in transfer portal acquisitions, according to 247Sports, completely retooling a depleted roster.
Let’s get to know some of the newest members of the St. John’s basketball program.
SG Joson Sanon: #25th ranked, Arizona State
The first domino to fall, Joson Sanon is a true threat from beyond the arc. Something the Red Storm desperately lacked last season.
As a team, the Johnnies shot just 30.1% from three, including a brutal 2-for-22 performance against Arkansas in their 75-66 second-round NCAA Tournament exit.
Sanon gives St. John’s a dose of pure shooting.
The former five-star recruit averaged 11 points as a freshman at Arizona State, knocking down 36% of his shots from deep. He tends to be a streaky scorer, opening the season as one of the nation’s hottest shooters at 47% from three, before cooling off dramatically and finishing 14for-58 down the stretch.
One of Sanon’s issues is on the defensive end. He often closes out too hard on guards, giving up easy lanes to the basket. That’s a habit that can be cleaned up in the Red Storm’s system. Sanon also brings high-level athleticism and a projectable frame, tools that fit perfectly with what Rick Pitino looks for.
SF Imran Suljanovic: Austria
In 2024, Rick Pitino and St. John’s found talent in Portugal by acquiring PF Ruben Prey. This offseason, Pitino again tackled the international recruiting field by acquiring top European
recruit Imran Suljanovic. Suljanovic enters St. John’s as a 19-year-old, 6-foot-5 small forward, capable of shooting the lights out of any arena in America. He played for the FIBA U18 EuroBasket Division over the last three seasons, averaging 18 points and five rebounds during this time.
It will be interesting to see how the Red Storm utilize Suljanovic in his first season with the team, whether he’s a reserve player learning from the rest of the team or a key bench piece in their Big East push.
G Dylan Darling, Idaho State
After going all-out and landing big-name transfers like Ian Jackson and Bryce Hopkins, the Red Storm dipped into mid-major basketball to acquire Dylan Darling from Idaho State, one of the biggest steals of the entire portal month.
Darling was the Big Sky Player of the Year as just a sophomore, totaling 19.8 points per game along with five assists, leading the Big Sky with a 35.3% assist percentage and only having a 12.6% turnover rate.
Darling will most likely enter the Red Storm’s rotation as the team’s backup point guard, after Pitino announced Ian Jackson would start there, having a backup option is an amazing scenario.
On April, the St. John’s softball team scored five runs in the fourth inning at Red Storm Field to overcome a two run lead from UConn to complete a series sweep after winning both doubleheader games on Friday.
The Johnnies are now 37-14-1 and 17-4 in Big East play. This has been a historic season for St. John’s, as the team broke the program record of 32 wins.
After the game, the team celebrated their seven seniors Natalie Casto, London Jarrard, Celia Macari, Maeve Marra, Melanie Santos, Anese Thompson and Carolina Zamudio, six of which played for St. John’s all four years.
Villanova began the scoring in the first inning after an error from St. John’s. Kelsey White then singled to bring Ava Mahnken home for the second and final run of the game for Villanova.
St. John’s had a few players reach base in the first three innings, but was not able to score runs until the fourth. A single to center field from Natalie Casto began the scoring, bringing Elanna Lysiak home.
Next, Santos singled to left center to score another run. Jess Bianco walked to record an RBI and Jarrard singled to left field to bring home both Casto and Santos.
The team’s offense was led by Jarrard and Thompson, who were both 2-3 for the day. Jarrard hit a double in the second alongside her double RBI single in the fifth.
Defensively, junior Ana Serafinko pitched all seven innings for the Johnnies. She had ten strikeouts in Sunday’s game, bringing her season total to 137 and breaking the Big East record for strikeouts in a single season.
The Red Storm are back in action this Friday, where they begin their final regular season series against UConn.
Currently, St. John’s and UConn tie for first in the Big East Conference. Just a few days later, the Big East Tournament begins in Philadelphia.
Jason Petrucci | aPril 27, 2025
Megan chaPMan | aPril 28, 2025
Rick Pitino has pushed this program over the top.
Torch Photo / James Williams
SPORTS
UConn Dominates Red Storm
St. John’s Baseball continued Big East play on April 25, opening the series with a doubleheader against the UConn Huskies.
Game 2 of the series was moved to the previous day due to inclement weather on Saturday. The Red Storm would try to get back in the conference win column after a sweep by Creighton. The Huskies entered the series on a hot 10-game win streak, sweeping Georgetown and winning mid-week one-off games against Boston College, the University of Massachusetts, Army and Hofstra University.
The series opener ended in the Johnnies losing a shootout 13-8.
Making the start for St. John’s was freshman David Rodriguez. He would struggle in Game 1, allowing seven runs on eight hits and two walks in just three innings pitched. The Johnnies’ offense would pick him up, scoring seven runs of their own in the second and fourth innings.
Senior center fielder Jackson Tucker and junior left fielder Jon LeGrande led the Red Storm’s early surge with three RBIs each. LeGrande’s single to right field would bring the first run for the home team and Tucker’s bases-loaded one-out double was crucial to St. John’s early comeback.
Leads would be exchanged again in the fifth inning. Outfielder Sam Biller would take the lead back for the Huskies with a solo home run
into the Johnnies’ bullpen. LeGrande would respond to the homer with another right field single for his third RBI of the game.
UConn would instantly take their lead back for good in the sixth inning. Tyler Minick opened the frame with a leadoff bomb to left field off of sophomore Jacob Ruiz. Senior catcher Matt Garbowski would bring in the Huskies’ 11th run of the game on an opposite-field double.
An Aidan Dougherty double and a Minick single for his fifth hit of the game would combine for two more runs in the ninth to seal the 13-8 victory for UConn.
Game 2 of the doubleheader wouldn’t see much improvement from St. John’s. The Huskies would put up another double-digit performance in a 17-6 win.
Evan Chaffee would make the start for the Johnnies against Tommy Ellisen in the afternoon matchup. Like Game 1, the Red Storm starter would struggle early, allowing 11 runs on 12 hits in 5 ⅔ innings of work. Ellisen would go a similar distance, pitching six innings while only allowing four runs on seven hits and two walks.
Dougherty would be a massive part of the Huskies’ offense in Game 2. The junior left fielder brought in four runs on five hits, four of which were doubles. Minick would also continue his attack on St. John’s pitching with
three RBIs and a two-run home run.
LeGrande would lead the Johnnies’ offense again, batting in three runs on three hits, including a triple and two singles. Shaun McMillan would also contribute to the attack with a two-run homer in the bottom of the seventh.
The third and final game of the series would complete UConn’s blowout sweep with a 14-3 win.
Victor Frederick would start for the Red Storm, pitching 4 ⅓ innings and allowing three runs on four hits and three walks. Charlie West started for the Huskies, throwing six strong innings and allowing three runs, one earned, on two walks and two hits.
Graduate infielder Bryan Padilla led UConn in Game 3 with a three-run home run and an RBI sacrifice bunt for four RBIs. Dougherty would continue his tear with his sixth double of the series and a solo home run, his first in a Huskies uniform.
The series sweep boosted UConn’s winning streak to an impressive 13 games and improved to an 11-4 Big East record, tied for second place with Xavier. The Red Storm drops to an even 6-6 conference record. They will face Iona at home on Tuesday for their next game.
SebaStian Zelaya | april 28, 2025
Torch Photo / Sebastian Zelaya