:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/63394068/usa_today_12181315.0.jpg)
St. John’s wing LJ Figueroa, a central piece on last season’s team, has decided to enter the transfer portal. The news was broken by Zach Braziller of the NY Post.
LJ Figueroa has entered the transfer portal, source confirms. #sjubb. Initially he had planned to wait to see who St Johns would hire.
— Zach Braziller (@NYPost_Brazille) April 11, 2019
“St Johns is very much in the picture, but he wants to weigh all his options.” — Alex Arias, LJ Figueroa advisor. #sjubb
— Zach Braziller (@NYPost_Brazille) April 11, 2019
Last season Figueroa joined the Red Storm after spending one year at Odessa College. During his time in junior college, Figueroa averaged 21 points per game and was named an NJCAA Division 1 First Team All-American.
While only spending one season at St. John’s, his impact was immense. He finished the season averaging 14 points, six rebounds, and two assists. Figueroa also shot 51% from the field, and 38% from deep.
He also was a very keen defensive player, racking up almost two steals per contest. Figueroa had seven such games in which he recorded three or more steals. While helping lead the Johnnies to a victory at Georgetown this past January, he tallied six steals.
Figueroa certainly will be one of the best talents available in the pool of transfers, at his position. His ability to shoot and slash in his 6-foot-6 frame is appealing to many teams around the nation.
Whoever is the next coach of the Red Storm will have to re-recruit Figueroa. With two more years left of eligibility, it will be imperative for St. John’s to convince him to stay with the team, or find a capable replacement.