Rick Pitino’s latest statement had many college basketball fans up in arms, saying that the “point guard is totally done,” sparking backlash on social media.The comment, shared by "The Field of 68" on X on Wednesday, drew reactions from fans who defended the role of traditional point guards.“Elijah Hawkins would like a word,” one fan wrote, referencing the skilled Texas Tech transfer.“Terrible take,” a fan said.“Bad take,” another fan wrote.“Just last season: Bennett Stirtz, Bruce Thornton, Braden Smith, etc. all traditional Point Guards and some of the best players in the country. What is his deal?” one fan commented.“Did we not just see a traditional PG led team in the NBA finals?” a fan tweeted.“Is way of saying he doesn’t have one on his roster which will be their downfall,” one fan said.Pitino added during the media session at Carnesecca Arena that his Red Storm would go without a true point guard in 2025-26. Instead, he plans to run a "pointless system" built on motion, spacing and shared ball handling duties.“The days of John Stockton are long gone,” Pitino said. “Chris Paul is probably the last one. So you got to play with everybody handling the basketball, five out and just create good movement.”Despite the controversy, Pitino believes his team's athleticism suits the system.“So everybody handles the ball, everybody passes the ball," Pitino said. "We’re running pure motion because everybody’s really physically skilled.”After winning Big East, Naismith and AP Coach of the Year honors last season, Pitino hopes to push St. John's deeper into March Madness.The Red Storm ended their six-year absence from the NCAA Tournament, but were defeated by No. 10-ranked Arkansas in the second round.However, it was a great achievement, ending their drought for a conference regular season title since 1992, and a conference tournament title since 2000.Rick Pitino applauds St. John’s players for work ethic summer practiceSt. John’s coach Rick Pitino was impressed with his roster after completing summer practice, highlighting what makes it strong.“As our summer practices come to a close, it’s quite evident that the strength of this team is their work ethic, character and humility.What an exceptional group of young men. Every year keeps getting better!” Pitino tweeted on July 21.Rick Pitino @RealPitinoLINKAs our summer practices come to a close, it's quite evident that the strength of this team is their work ethic, character, and humility. What an exceptional group of young men . Every year keeps getting better!The Red Storm had an active offseason, focusing heavily on the transfer portal. They acquired several high-profile players, while retaining some of their key contributors from last season.