By SEAN BOCK
Sophomore guard Marcus LoVett will leave the St. John’s basketball program, he announced on Saturday. LoVett will return home to California and rehab from his season-ending injury and will pursue a career in professional basketball.
“Right now I feel it is best for me to return home, get healthy and explore all options for my basketball future,” LoVett said in a release. “It has always been a goal of mine to play professional basketball, so I am committed to working hard to position myself for the best available opportunity. I enjoyed my experience at St. John’s and appreciate all the support from Red Storm fans.”
In seven starts this season, LoVett averaged 14.9 points and 2.1 assists per game. Since scoring double-figures for the sixth time in seven appearances on Nov. 26 versus UCF, LoVett has been sidelined for the remainder of the season due to a left knee injury.
“We wish Marcus the best of luck,” said St. John’s Head Coach Chris Mullin. “I know this wasn’t an easy decision for him, but we respect and understand it. He’s a good basketball player and a good person with a bright future ahead.”
A 2017 unanimous BIG EAST All-Freshman Team selection, LoVett averaged 15.9 points and dished out a team-high 3.8 assists during his first season at St. John’s.
“Marcus will forever be part of the St. John’s Basketball family,” said Director of Athletics Anton Goff. “We will continue to fully support his aspirations to earn his degree from St. John’s and look forward to celebrating his future successes on and off the basketball court.”
@Marcus_LoVett rehab’n his INJURIES….3 sem. to graduate 2.8gpa. 22 yrs old next month. Wish he could have done more for team/fans/staff on the court. Health is serious regardless of basketball, period.
(final amateur game vs UCF) #sjubb – @1MarcusLoVett – pic.twitter.com/dOukDMfOXc— WE WIN WEST (@WeWinWest) February 18, 2018
St. John’s is currently riding a four-game winning streak after losing its previous 11 and are 14-13 (3-11 Big East) heading into its matchup at Marquette on Feb. 21.
