The latest CBS Sports Preseason Top 25 And 1 has reshuffled the landscape of college basketball, and St. John's finds itself perched at No. 16 as the 2026‑27 season approaches. The ranking reflects not only the program’s recent on‑court progress but also the buzz generated by a high‑profile recruiting coup.
Four‑star prospect Theo Edema, originally slated for the Class of 2027, announced that he will reclassify to the 2026 cycle and join the Red Storm for the upcoming campaign. Standing at seven feet tall, Edema is celebrated for his relentless work ethic on both ends of the floor, a trait that aligns perfectly with Coach Rick Pitino’s philosophy of demanding intensity and versatility.
Pitino, who has built his reputation on assembling competitive teams through the transfer portal, is already mapping out the next moves. He has publicly stated that the roster will welcome two more players before the season begins, a plan that underscores his intent to deepen the squad’s talent pool and maintain a competitive edge in the Big East.
What This Means for the Red Storm
The commitment of Edema arrives alongside a modest but promising return of two of St. John's top eight scorers from the previous season. While the core remains young, the addition of a player of Edema’s caliber promises to elevate the offensive ceiling and provide a defensive anchor against the league’s increasingly versatile big men.
The broader Top 25 list offers context for the Red Storm’s ascent. Florida holds the No. 1 spot, buoyed by the return of six of their seven top scorers, while traditional powerhouses such as Duke, Michigan, and UConn round out the upper echelon. The presence of these programs highlights the competitive depth of the nation’s basketball landscape and the challenge facing St. John's as they aim to punch above their recent historical weight.
For the Red Storm, the preseason ranking is more than a numerical badge; it is a statement of intent. It signals to recruits, opponents, and fans alike that the program is actively reshaping its identity under Pitino’s guidance. The next few weeks will reveal how quickly the new additions can gel, and whether the roster moves will translate into on‑court success when the season finally tips off.