Williams and Ellison transferring from St. John’s

QUEENS, N.Y.– Graduating senior Darien Williams and rising junior Malik Ellison have been granted releases from the St. John’s men’s basketball program to pursue transfer opportunities. Both student-athletes have received permission to speak with other NCAA Division I programs.

“We want to thank Darien and Malik for their contributions to our basketball program over the past two years,” said Head Coach Chris Mullin. “We wish them much success in their future.”

Williams announced his intention to pursue graduate transfer opportunities after he satisfies the requirements for his bachelor’s degree this spring. He came off the bench in 24 contests last season and averaged 12.4 minutes per game for the Red Storm in 2016-17. Williams averaged 3.8 points while shooting 54.0 percent from the field and 72.7 percent at the free-throw line.

“St. John’s is a great place,” said Williams. “It has been an honor to be part of a program with such history and tradition. I want to thank Coach Mullin and the coaching staff for giving me the opportunity to share some great memories and earn my degree from such a highly-regarded University.”

Ellison played in all 33 games last season for the Red Storm. The 6-foot-6 guard from Voorhees, N.J. averaged 7.4 points, 3.3 rebounds and 2.5 assists during his sophomore campaign. Per NCAA transfer requirements, Ellison must sit out the 2017-18 season and will have two years of eligibility remaining.

“I would like to thank the coaching staff and administration for supplying a family atmosphere and allowing me to better myself as an individual,” said Ellison. “I also would like to thank all my teammates with whom I spent a great two years with and developed strong bonds that I hope to continue in the future. Obviously, this was a difficult decision, but my family and I have decided it is best for me.”