Red Storm already looking to reload

St. John’s may lose two of its biggest starters to the draft next year in Shamorie Ponds and Mustapha Heron and they’re recruiting diligently to replace them. They just went to Florida to see point guard Andre Curbelo and hoping to see CJ Wilcher on campus in February for an official

“We set that up because they were the first school to offer me this year,” he said. “They stay in contact all the time, so I just wanted to show them love just like they’ve shown me love.”

Wilcher confirmed that the official visit will take place on the weekend of February 15th, 2019.

St. John’s, Providence, Cincinnati, Xavier, Virginia Tech and Seton Hall amongst other are also pursuing him.

The 2020 shooting guard, ranked 143 in his class, is expecting to learn more about the campus and experience St. John’s first hand.

“I just want to experience it and learn what I can learn,” he said. “They talked about me taking the spot of Shamorie, being the leader of the team and coming in and having an impact instantly.”

The fact that St. John’s is close to home will play a big role in his recruitment. RedStormReport.com reported months ago that St. John’s was a favorite, and while more schools are coming hard, Wilcher could be the Johnnies to lose.

“I like Chris Mullin and his laid-back attitude,” Wilcher said. “He will get on a player but we won’t try to embarrass you. He’s extremely laid back but its intense as well. They let their players go, they let Shamorie play basketball. They let him play through mistakes, let him play free, be a leader—I just like that kind of vibe.”

Texas A&M, Florida, Stanford and VCU among others are starting to recruit the talented 6-5 guard out of St. Benedicts Prep (NJ). St. John’s has its work cut out but if they stay consistent, they may be in prime position to land a very talented shot maker.