Heading into Marquette’s game versus St. John’s on Thursday night, expectations were uncertain. Marquette lost four straight games and St. John’s has been a thorn in their side all season. Johnnies accounted for the only two losses Marquette had in conference before they went on their slide to finish the year. The response Marquette gave was one that mad you encouraged as a fan and opened some eyes in the national landscape. Marquette drubbed St. John’s, 96-54 breaking the four-game losing streak and moving on to the Big East semifinals tonight at Madison Square Garden.

Player of the Game: Markus Howard – What a game from Howard. FOX’s broadcast wanted him to be the next great star to go off in the Garden, and while that’s a tall task, Howard started to etch his name. He had a Garden-like night with 30 points, seven rebounds and four assists. It’s crazy that Howard did not even make his first bucket until the 12 or 11 minute mark of the first half. Howard had two spurts in both halves where he couldn’t miss anything. It was so damn fun. Howard let the game come to him which hasn’t happened in a few weeks.

Silver Star: Sacar Anim – If you were to watch the game, Anim seemed like had more than 13 points. He provided some quick scoring to start the game which Marquette desparately needed. When you’re in a slump, there’s no better feeling than to start off hot. Golden Eagles forward is the glue for this team. He holds it all together and does a great job of it. Anim provided a great lift early on as Howard had yet to catch fire.

Positive: Defense shined bright – Many would want to point out Marquette scored nearly 100 points, but what I loved was the defense. Marquette applied the clamps and held St. John’s down. The key moment of the game in my opinion was when Marquette went scoreless late in the first half. They were up 14 and vulnerable for a run. They kept St. John’s in double-digits at halftime being up 12. That’s great defense by the Golden Eagles.

Next up: The revenge tour continues with Seton Hall tonight. Golden Eagles and Pirates met 10 days ago. Marquette could have easily blew them out if they had not turned the ball over 15 times in the first half. Marquette needs to be a little better with the ball than they were last night, and they can win this game going away. Golden Eagles have never played for a Big East Conference Tournament title. Seton Hall will be going for their four visit to the final game.

Charlie.