As it turns out, Sidney Wilson will never play a game for St. John’s.
The 6-foot-7 wing from The Bronx who spent last season at prep power Brewster (N.H.) Academy after transferring from St. Raymond’s High School will transfer from the program before his freshman season. He must sit out the 2017-18 season and will be blocked from transfering to a Big East school, a source said.
“A lot has happened in my life over the last few years,” Wilson said in a release. “These factors played a large part in my decision to stay close to home, but unfortunately I recently realized it was not what is best for me at this time to manage adversity in my life.
“I am grateful for the opportunity that St. John’s provided me and for the support of Coach Mullin and the rest of the staff throughout this difficult process,” said Wilson. “In order for me to grow as a person and basketball player, I feel that I need to begin something new to explore what is next in my life. Although I know the grass isn’t always greener, this is a risk I am willing to take for personal reasons.”
Wilson chose the Red Storm over UConn and Texas.
The No. 19 small forward in the Class of 2017 per 247Sports.com, Wilson averaged 17.2 points and 5.3 rebounds last season for a Brewster team that went 33-0 and won the NEPSAC Class AAA championship and the National Prep Championship.
“We know this was not an easy decision for Sid, so we are supportive of him as he strives to find the right fit,” said St. John’s head coach Chris Mullin. “He is a good person and talented player who we wish the best as he begins his new journey.”
St. John’s still brings in guard Bryan Trimble and big man Boubacar Diakite, who will redshirt.
St. John’s brings back guards Shamorie Ponds and Marcus LoVett and wing Bashir Ahmed, along with transfers Marvin Clark Jr. and Justin Simon, who are expected to bolster a program that had a six-win improvement in Big East play last season.
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