St. John's University called a timeout.
As Walker came off the court, he sought out Tang Tian and gave him a powerful high-five.
Tang Tian had teased him yesterday, and this was Walker's response through his actions: I sat out to save my energy for the game, not because I was scared!
Tang Tian smiled. Walker finding his form again was the best possible news for UConn.
After the timeout, it was St. John's University's possession, with Conley organizing from the perimeter.
A physical battle broke out under the basket as Johnson and O'Riaqi fought shirtless for position.
In the end, Johnson secured position inside. Conley sent in a lob pass, and Johnson's turnaround attempt drew a defensive foul from O'Riaqi.
This was true traditional center play.
Johnson made one of two free throws.
The score was 9-7, with UConn leading.
Walker brought the ball into the frontcourt and continued running pick and rolls with Tang Tian.
After finding his form again, the pick and roll between him and Tang Tian began showing its destructive power once more.
If they trapped Walker, Tang Tian could shoot, and he was almost automatic;
If they did not trap Walker, his recent scoring streak was the result.
This move was nearly impossible to stop.
St. John's University chose to double-team Walker, but the help came from the weak side. Their forward abandoned Smith and collapsed directly into the paint.
Walker kicked the ball out to Smith. Smith had an open look after catching it, but he hesitated and did not shoot.
As a role player, after missing his first shot of the game, he did not have much confidence in his shooting opportunities.
The ball went to Lamb. Lamb tried to overpower the opposing center, but Diesel disrupted him and he missed. Johnson