St. John’s Is Becoming Texas East

Today’s player barely remembers that the storied St. John’s basketball program was the college home of Walter Berry and NBA Legend Chris Mullin. Thise days are in the distant past as St. John’s whose players are afforded the opportunity to play at the college level at historic Madison Square Garden are currently being rebuilt by Coach Steve Lavin.  Former Fort Bend Dulles (TX) star D’Angelo Harrison is the main cog in their rebirth. He’s averaging 16 ppg, leading all freshmen in Big East scoring.  He was recently named Big East Rookie of the Week, the first Jonnies player to earn that honor since 2004.

He’ll be joined in the backcourt by Arlington Grace Prep (TX) PG Jamal Branch who was a Top 100 prospect, the #8 PG in the Class of 2011.  Branch decided to transfer from Texas A&M just before the New Year.  He was courted by Arizona, Maryland and fellow Big East school, Marquette.  He picked the Red Storm too.  Sometimes when you’re right in the middle of something you don’t appreciate it as much. 

Jamal Branch Has Left the Aggies and Landed at St. John's. Phot compliments of NY Daily News

Trust me basketball fans, Texas Prep basketball is on par with anywhere in the country.  It’s the epicenter of many D1 programs recruiting universe. I see it and deal with these coaches every day.  They love Texas kids, and now a couple of them in Harrison and Branch are charged with polishing up the Big Appple.