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Marcellus Earlington, who committed to St. John’s in the late winter, has officially sent in his paperwork and will be a part of the roster next season.
Earlington was an under-the-radar recruit who was a high-level football player, receiving Power-5 football scholarship offers. But Earlington chose to play basketball instead, and chose St. John’s as his destination.
From the school’s release:
A 6-foot-5, 240-pound incoming freshman, Earlington is a two-time all state selection from Don Bosco Prep (N.J.) who helped lead the Ironmen to a pair of NJSIAA Non-Public A championships and consecutive appearances in the NJSIAA Tournament of Champions title game.
“Marcellus is a versatile player who comes from a winning tradition at Don Bosco Prep,” said Head Coach Chris Mullin. “We believe his athleticism, physicality and strength will translate well at this level. He can thrive in our program because he has a relentless work ethic. Our staff is excited to welcome Marcellus to the St. John’s basketball family.”
The Stony Point, N.Y., native was named Second Team All-State as a senior after averaging 19 points and 11 rebounds per game.
When he committed, Earlington told the Rumble that he appreciated the chance to play on a big stage and stay home.
For AAU ball in the spring and summer, Earlington also played with the NJ Playaz, where he was an inside threat next to forward Vladir Manuel, a Seton Hall commit. His overall numbers in EYBL play were reduced by a sluggish showing at the Peach Jam. Outside of Peach Jam, Earlington shot 61% inside the arc, 34% outside the arc, grabbed 12% of offensive rebounds and 17% of defensive boards.
More on his game in the Recruiting Profile.
St. John’s will have more heft inside, with Sedee Keita coming off of a redshirt year to join Marvin Clark II; Earlington and incoming freshman Josh Roberts help join the forward group.
Will they be ready to contribute? Minutes seem up for grabs now that forward Tariq Owens will depart for Texas Tech as a grad transfer, and Bashir Ahmed’s graduation means that there could be minutes on the wing, as well.
The Johnnies are also looking at a number of grad transfers to help shore up the inside game.