Kadary Richmond will stay in the Big East for his fifth season.
The top-ranked player in the transfer portal announced his decision to join St. John’s. Richmond spent the last three seasons at Seton Hall after one year at Syracuse.
Per ESPN’s Jonathan Givony and Jeff Borzello, Richmond explained his decision to play for head coach Rick Pitino.
“They were big on life after basketball and player development,” Richmond told ESPN. “That stood out to me, the way they kept it real from day one. They are going to allow me to showcase my ability and become a better basketball player and person. I’d like to make a long run deep into the NCAA tournament and eventually win a national championship. I’m ready to get to work and see what Coach Pitino has in store.”
Richmond received first-team All-Big East honors last season by averaging 15.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, 5.1 assists, and 2.2 steals at Seton Hall. The Pirates settled for an NIT invitation after losing to St. John’s in the Big East Tournament.
ESPN and 247Sports both ranked Richmond the No. 1 player in the portal. He’s another major addition for Pitino’s Red Storm, who added Utah guard Deivon Smith through the transfer portal on Monday.
“I like the additions we’ve put together,” Richmond said. “Deivon Smith is also all about winning and making winning plays. RJ Luis is someone I’ve played against, he’s a competitor. Same with Vincent Iwuchukwu. The pieces are aligning. I like the vision that was put together.”
Richmond also cited Jalen Brunson’s success with the New York Knicks as motivation to move to the Big Apple.
“Winning in New York is a big thing,” Richmond said. “I want to be a part of that.”