Pitino Challenges Hopkins to Embrace Mamba Mentality Ahead of Season

St. John’s University head coach Rick Pitino issued a direct challenge to transfer player Bryce Hopkins during the team’s annual media day on Thursday. Pitino emphasized his desire for Hopkins to adopt a “Mamba Mentality,” inspired by the late basketball legend Kobe Bryant, stating, “I want him to have a Mamba Mentality and he doesn’t have it.”

Hopkins, who transferred to St. John’s from Providence College, is set to miss the starting lineup in the upcoming exhibition game against Towson University. Pitino explained that while Hopkins had participated with the starters during a recent open scrimmage at Madison Square Garden, he would instead start Dillon Mitchell, a transfer from Cincinnati. The remaining starters for the game include Oziyah Sellers, Ian Jackson, Joson Sanon, and Zuby Ejiofor.

Despite this setback, Hopkins expressed a commitment to improving his performance. Reflecting on Pitino’s expectations, he noted, “He definitely has mentioned getting the Alpha mentality and the Mamba mentality… that’s just me being aggressive and coming out from the jump and not taking a back seat to anybody.” This aligns with Pitino’s approach to fostering a competitive atmosphere within the team.

Hopkins, who stands 6 feet 7 inches tall, has faced significant challenges in his career. After transferring from Kentucky following his freshman season, he was named First Team All-Big East for the 2022-23 season, showcasing his potential as a key player. Unfortunately, injuries have marred his progress, limiting him to just 17 games over the past two seasons. A knee injury last year required ACL surgery in January 2024, and he later aggravated the same injury.

In discussing his recovery, Hopkins shared, “Yeah, it was definitely tough. Being out, that was my first time going through a serious injury, and, you know, stepping away from the game for that long time.” His average of 17.7 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game during healthy stretches reflects his capabilities.

Despite the challenges, Hopkins is optimistic about the upcoming season. He remarked, “I definitely do feel the difference. I feel lighter. My moves are quicker; I can play longer.” He acknowledged the scrutiny from Providence fans on social media, particularly regarding his decision to transfer and receive NIL compensation to play for Pitino, an ex-coach at Providence. “I see it. I try not to let it get to my head,” he said, emphasizing his focus on his contributions to the team.

As the season approaches, Hopkins is determined to prove his worth. “For sure,” he stated when asked if he could be a better player this year. “I think with me sitting out… I feel like the game slowed down for me when I got back onto the court. I’m not rushing a lot anymore and I’m letting the game come to me, so I feel more comfortable right now.”

With a commitment to his teammates and a renewed sense of purpose, Hopkins is ready to embrace the challenges ahead. “There’s always going to be a chip on my shoulder,” he said. “I know what I bring to the table. I haven’t played in a while, so yes I want to prove something, but I’m not going to do anything out of body. I’m just going to let the game come to me and play through my teammates.”

As St. John’s University prepares for the upcoming NCAA basketball season, all eyes will be on how Rick Pitino’s challenge influences Bryce Hopkins and the team’s performance as they aim for success in the challenging Big East Conference.