As reported by the New York Post, associate head coach Barry “Slice” Rohrssen is no longer a part of the Red Storm basketball program.
Just a few months ago rumors surfaced regarding St. John’s interest in buying out his multi-year contract. After the recent promotion of graduate assistant Luca Virgilio, it was inferred that Rohrssen’s days in Queens had concluded. This was re-assured Thursday when Rohrssen’s name was removed from St. John’s official roster.
Sources divulged to the New York Post Slice’s negative feelings about his role. He expected to have more input on both in-game strategies and on the recruiting trail.
Greg St. Jean, assistant coach, was Chris Mullin’s main aid pertaining to game strategy. Fellow assistant coach Matt Abdelmassih emerged as the lead recruiter, as deserved. Abdelmassih is credited with the commitments of newcomers Shamorie Ponds, Richard Freudenberg, along with numerous players that competed last season.
Special adviser Mitch Redmond will be brought on as an assistant coach alongside St. Jean and Abdelmassih.
At first thought, losing a staff member with such experience seems like a major loss. When you delve a little deeper, it is clear, Rohrssen’s departure shouldn’t negatively effect the program much. Many believed St. John’s woes last season were simply due to lack of roster depth, not the coaching staff. Arguably the worst part of this situation is St. John’s having to fork up $400,000 or more for Rohrssen’s buyout.