St. John’s leads last 10 minutes, until Xavier wins and covers with 1.8 seconds remaining

If you had the St. John’s Red Storm +1.5 tonight against the Xavier Musketeers, our deepest condolences.

The Johnnies were winning (and thus covering) for the last 10 minutes of the game, until some poor late possessions let Xavier take a one point lead via Zach Freemantle short-range jumper on a nice dish from Naji Marshall with 10 seconds remaining.

But it was Red Storm +1.5, and you’ve got the ball. You should be fine, right??

Not when you play in the home of the New York Knicks, apparently...

A poor shot from LJ Figueroa, Freemantle gathers the rebound, and is immediately fouled with 1.8 seconds left.

Xavier is in the bonus, but it’s the one-and-one, and Freemantle is a freshman... so there’s still a chance... nope, he makes both free throws. And to add insult to an injured side choice, SJU’s Nick Rutherford’s heave is blocked as the buzzer sounds so the Johnnies didn’t even get off a prayer.

It’s been a rough year transitioning from Chris Mullin to Mike Anderson for NYC’s college team, but as bad as that’s been, it’s still likely easier to deal with than what their wagering backers did tonight. A great road win for Xavier, and a brutal beat for Red Storm +1.5 fans.

Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ/WV/PA) or 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN) or 1-800-522-4700 (NH). NH/NJ/WV/IN/PA only. 21+ (18+ NH). Eligibility Restrictions Apply. See website for details.