Playing without their head coach, host St. John’s opened its season with a 74-59 win over William & Mary in the 2k Sports Classic benefiting Coaches vs. Cancer.

Red Storm coach Steve Lavin watched from home as he continues his recovery from Oct. 6 surgery for prostate cancer. He saw his team ratchet up the defensive pressure and go on a 22-5 run early in the second half, wiping out a 33-26 halftime deficit.

Junior college transfer Nurideen Lindsey had 19 points, five steals and four assists to lead the Red Storm. Forward God’sgift Achiuwa, another juco transfer, and freshman Moe Harkless scored 17 apiece. D’Angelo Harrison added 14.

Quinn McDowell scored 20 points for the Tribe, which fell to 20-83 alltime against Big East teams.

The Tribe hit seven 3-pointers in the first half and frustrated the Red Storm with a shifting halfcourt zone. But St. John’s created a much faster tempo in the second half, causing turnovers that led to layups and open looks.

Assistant Mike Dunlap served as head coach in Lavin's absence.