By Joseph Staszewski
Samir Doughty’s chance to leave a lasting impression on the New York City hoops community was far from a smashing success.
The St. John’s University men’s basketball commit and Math Civics & Science guard tallied 14 points, four rebounds, four steals and two blocks in his team’s 91-55 loss to Abraham Lincoln at the Tri-State Classic High School Classic Sunday night at Gauchos Gym. The 6-foot-3, 180-pound Philadelphia guard was less concerned with how he played in New York City, but more that his team struggled in a loss.
“It’s not frustrating that we played in New York City and lost, but right now all we can do is get back in the gym,” Doughty said.
St. John’s lone 2015 signee is capable of monster numbers. He scored a career-high 47 points, grabbed 12 rebounds and dished out five assists in a win over Elmer L. Meyers Saturday. Lincoln’s overall length and athleticism gave him little room to work. He tried to defer to his teammates, but Nick Jones at 11 points was the only other player to score in double figures.
“They played good help defense on me.” Doughty said of Lincoln. “They double-teamed me to get the ball out of my hands. My other teammates need to help me out.”
Still, you saw some flashes of what makes Doughty a promising prospect. He can affect the game on both ends of the floor and is an underrated passer. Doughty made 3’s and got to the basket and the free throw line. Defensively, he can block shots and rebound when he is aggressive. Doughty also showed character because he easily could have declined to talk to this media member after a frustrating loss, but came out politely and answered every question I had.
Doughty said Lincoln’s physical play didn’t bother him and his teammates, but the frustration was noticeable. He was in the referees’ ear more than once to make his case for fouls by the second half and even picked up a technical. Lincoln knew it had to shut him down to win.
“We wanted to make a statement, him coming here going to St. John’s,” Lincoln junior forward Jahlil Tripp said. “Coach (Kenny Pretlow) told us to ignore all the hype and lock him down, and we did.”
While this trip to New York City wasn’t the pleasant one, he is looking forward to his future here. Doughty is a big fan of Red Storm coach Steve Lavin and the team’s up-tempo style. He talks to fellow Philly guard Ryseed Jordan often and has enjoyed watching St. John’s get off to an 8-1 star and garner a national ranking. Doughty wants to continue that success when he arrives.
“I like playing in New York and I like playing at The Garden,” he said. “The majority of the games are at The Garden. I like playing on big stages.”
He will get plenty more chances to impress the five borough’s fans.
