In a lightning fast decision that has the college basketball world buzzing, five-star guard Joson Sanon committed to St. John’s less than 24 hours after entering the transfer portal. The former Arizona State freshman’s agent, Derek Malloy, explained the rapid choice in no uncertain terms, stating, “New York City, Madison Square Garden, Rick Pitino. If we weren’t the first to take it, I’d envy the person who did.”
Sanon’s commitment represents an early portal victory for the Red Storm and Hall of Fame coach Rick Pitino, who continues to rebuild St. John’s into a national powerhouse. After leading the program to its first Big East Tournament championship in 25 years and securing a No. 2 seed in the NCAA Tournament, though falling to No. 10 Arkansas in the Round of 32, Pitino has wasted no time addressing roster needs for the 2025-26 campaign.
Rick Pitino’s Recruiting Magic
Rick Pitino’s recruiting prowess remains unmatched in college basketball. His latest triumph came in announcing Sanon’s commitment to St. John’s within 24 hours of Sanon entering the transfer portal.
Joson Sanon commits to St. John’s less than 24 hours after entering the transfer portal. I asked his agent Derek Malloy about the quick decision.
“New York City, Madison Square Garden, Rick Pitino. If we weren’t the first to take it, I’d envy the person who did,” Malloy said. https://t.co/i4EMWSrXdQ pic.twitter.com/Mo9Svv4SNv
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) March 26, 2025
Sanon, the 6’5″ guard from Massachusetts, often ranked among the top 25 prospects nationally, fills a critical need for the Red Storm’s perimeter shooting.
His five-star pedigree and scoring versatility add another dimension to a St. John’s squad looking to build on their dominant 2024-25 season finishing with the Big East Tournament championship and a No. 2 seed in the NCAA Tournament.
The St. John’s Appeal
The quick commitment by Sanon highlights the growing appeal of St. John’s under Pitino’s leadership. The combination of playing in basketball’s mecca at Madison Square Garden, the bright lights of New York City, and learning from a coach with two national titles and seven Final Four appearances presents an irresistible opportunity for top talent.
For Sanon, the chance to develop under Pitino who has a history of elevating guards like Terry Rozier, Russ Smith and Donovan Mitchell could significantly boost his NBA prospects.
Meanwhile, St. John’s gains a versatile backcourt player with the size and skill set to thrive in Pitino’s up tempo system and pressing defense.
The Red Storm’s outlook for next season appears increasingly promising as they prepare to defend their Big East title. With potential matchups against powerhouse UConn, a resurgent Marquette and a typically strong Creighton squad the conference will once again be a gauntlet of talent.
Sanon will likely pair with tournament standout RJ Luis Jr., who erupted for 29 points in the Big East championship game against Creighton, giving St. John’s one of the most dynamic backcourts in college basketball.
KEEP READING: Rick Pitino Expresses Gratitude to St. John’s Seniors
As the transfer portal season continues, Pitino may not be done adding pieces to complement his new star guard and returning core, setting the stage for what could be another historic season at St. John’s.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in football, basketball, and more!
