Zuby Ejiofor Returning: The team's second-leading scorer, First Team All-Big East forward Zuby Ejiofor, announced he will return for his senior year, opting against testing the NBA Draft waters.
"Unfinished Business": Ejiofor stated he's "not ready to leave St. John’s and Coach P. We've got Unfinished Business," indicating strong motivation for the next season. His father confirmed Ejiofor wasn't swayed by outside offers.
Significant Performance Jump: After averaging just over 11 minutes per game in 2023-24, Ejiofor started 35 of 36 games in 2024-25, averaging 14.7 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks in 31.8 minutes per game.
Key Transfer Addition: Prior to Ejiofor's decision, St. John's secured a commitment from five-star Arizona State guard transfer Joson Sanon.
Ongoing Portal Activity: The team is reportedly targeting other players in the transfer portal, including Providence forward Bryce Hopkins and Georgia guard Silas Demary Jr.
Why this matters: Ejiofor's return provides crucial stability, scoring, and rebounding for the Red Storm. Combined with Sanon's arrival and potential further additions, St. John's is positioning itself for another strong run in the Big East and potentially the NCAA tournament next season under Pitino.
The St. John's Red Storm's promising 2024-25 season, led by coach Rick Pitino, ended sooner than hoped with a 75-66 loss to Arkansas in the NCAA Tournament's second round. Despite this setback, the offseason started positively.
Zuby Ejiofor, who began his collegiate career at Kansas before transferring to St. John's, became a cornerstone for the Red Storm. His sophomore season saw limited minutes, but his junior year marked a breakout. He transformed into a vital starter, evidenced by his All-Big East First Team selection and his crucial role throughout the season, including a 23-point, 12-rebound performance in the final game against Arkansas.
His decision to return for his senior season, despite reported interest from agents and other programs, is a massive boost for Pitino. Ejiofor cited "Unfinished Business" as his motivation, highlighting his commitment to the program he helped build. This commitment was echoed by his father, Andy Philachack, who resisted external enticements.
Ejiofor's return complements the earlier addition of highly-rated transfer Joson Sanon from Arizona State. The Red Storm aren't stopping there; reports indicate active recruitment of other transfers like Bryce Hopkins (Providence) and Silas Demary Jr. (Georgia), signaling Pitino's intent to aggressively build a competitive roster through the portal. While former target Mackenzie Mgbako is unlikely to join, the focus remains on adding impactful talent.
Q: Why is Zuby Ejiofor's return so important for St. John's?
A: Ejiofor was a First Team All-Big East forward and the team's second-leading scorer and leading rebounder. His return provides essential experience, leadership, scoring, and interior presence for the 2025-26 season.
Q: Who else has St. John's added for next season?
A: They have secured a commitment from Joson Sanon, a five-star guard transferring from Arizona State.
Q: Are there other potential additions St. John's is looking at?
A: Reports suggest St. John's is actively pursuing Providence forward Bryce Hopkins and Georgia guard Silas Demary Jr. in the transfer portal.
St. John's basketball received a major boost with the return of key player Zuby Ejiofor for his senior year.
This decision, coupled with the addition of transfer Joson Sanon, strengthens the team significantly for the 2025-26 season.
Coach Rick Pitino is actively using the transfer portal to build upon the momentum from the past season.
Fans should watch for further roster developments as St. John's targets other potential transfers like Bryce Hopkins and Silas Demary Jr.
St. John's is making strong moves early in the offseason. Do you think this guarantees a deeper NCAA Tournament run next year? Let us know!
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