St. John’s coach Rick Pitino continues to revamp the Red Storm’s roster, as he secures a commitment from former five-star recruit Dillon Mitchell. The 6-foot-8 forward, who played last season at Cincinnati, is the fifth transfer to join St. John’s this offseason, further supporting a team already projected as a preseason top-five contender.
Dillon Mitchell Strengthens St. John’s as Pitino Builds a Contender
Mitchell, a unanimous top-five prospect in the class of 2022 and McDonald’s All-American, began his college career at Texas before transferring to Cincinnati for the 24/25 season. At Cincinnati, Mitchell started all 35 games, averaging 9.9 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game, while shooting over 61% from the field.
With a college career spanning over three years, Mitchell has started 106 of 107 games, thereby showing consistency and durability. His athletic build and defensive prowess make him a prized asset who contributes on both ends of the court.
Mitchell’s commitment is part of Pitino’s aggressive strategy to revitalize St. John’s through the transfer portal. Ian Jackson (North Carolina), Bryce Hopkins (Providence), Joson Sanon (Arizona State), and Oziyah Sellers (Stanford) are among the excellent group of incoming transfers he joins. The return of All-Big East forward Zuby Ejiofor and these signings put the Red Storm in a strong position for the upcoming season.
With Dillon Mitchell joining the roster, Pitino has five key transfers this offseason, and each player fills a specific role. Mitchell brings athleticism, rebounding, and defensive versatility. Ian Jackson from North Carolina adds elite scoring ability. Bryce Hopkins brings toughness and Big East experience. Joson Sanon offers backcourt depth, while Oziyah Sellers adds perimeter shooting and spacing.
This isn’t just random recruiting; it’s highly targeted. Pitino is building a team with positional flexibility, strong defensive instincts, and a deep rotation that can mirror the style that made his Louisville and Kentucky teams so successful. With each addition from top-level programs, St. John’s is on the edge in maturity and game-readiness.
“We’re not just collecting talent. We’re building a team,” Pitino said in a recent interview. “It’s about the right fit. Guys who want to win, are coachable, and bring something unique to the floor.”
With this updated roster, expectations are set high, as St. John’s isn’t just aiming to make noise in the Big East. They’re building momentum towards serious national contention. With Pitino’s strategic moves, it’s not going to be about winning the next season; it’s about reestablishing the Red Storm as a college basketball powerhouse.
With the introduction of experienced transfers and the leadership of Coach Pitino, St. John’s is set to build upon its recent success. High expectations have been raised by the team’s impressive success in the previous season, which ended in a Big East regular-season championship.
Mitchell is versatile, and this gives Pitino tactical options by enabling a variety of lineup configurations. With Mitchell’s skill set, the team’s versatility increases whether on a traditional frontcourt with Hopkins and Ejiofor or switching to a smaller, quicker unit.
KEEP READING: Recruiting Masterclass By Rick Pitino Leaves Fans Shocked as Big Sky MVP Dylan Darling Commits to St. John’s
As the Red Storm prepares for the 2025/26 season, Dillon Mitchell’s addition shows a commitment to excellence and a pursuit of national fame. And with a blend of seasoned transfers and returning talent, St. John is set to make a significant impact in college basketball.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in football, men’s basketball, women’s basketball, and baseball!
