NEW YORK (AP) — Shenneika Smith scored 22 points and No. 22 St. John’s beat Nicholls State 79-54 on Friday.
Eugeneia McPherson, starting in place of injured point guard Nadirah McKenith, added 12 points, seven rebounds and four steals for the Red Storm (5-1). McKenith played only nine minutes while recovering from a groin injury. She finished with six points.
The Red Storm came into the season with high hopes after making the NCAA tournament last season and losing in overtime to Florida State in the second round. They were ranked in the preseason poll for the first time in school history.
Despite its record, St. John’s hasn’t played well yet this season. The Red Storm struggled Monday to beat Arkansas State, trailing by 12 points early on before rallying for a 12-point win.
Rachinda Bickham scored 18 points and KK Babin added 17 to lead Nicholls State (2-3).
