Bryce Hopkins, a talented 6-foot-7 forward who played for Providence College, is set to transfer to St. John’s University, according to reports. This move will place him under the guidance of legendary coach Rick Pitino, marking a significant addition to the Red Storm’s roster.
Hopkins initially started his college basketball career at the University of Kentucky before transferring to Providence. While playing for the Friars, he emerged as a key contributor, averaging 15.5 points and 8.6 rebounds per game. However, his progress was hindered by an ACL injury that forced him to miss the majority of the 2023-2024 season. After making a brief return the following season, appearing in just three games and averaging 17 points, Hopkins ultimately decided to enter the transfer portal in search of a fresh start.
St. John’s, which has been actively pursuing players through the transfer market, quickly became a top destination for Hopkins. His recruitment involved a virtual meeting with Coach Pitino, which reportedly went well. Shortly afterward, sources indicated that Hopkins had committed to joining the Red Storm, bolstering their lineup for the upcoming season.
The addition of Hopkins is expected to significantly strengthen St. John’s frontcourt. His ability to score, rebound, and create opportunities on offense makes him a crucial asset for Pitino’s squad. Furthermore, Hopkins’ arrival comes as St. John’s successfully retained another key forward, Zuby Ejiofor, who chose to stay with the team despite receiving lucrative Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) offers from other programs. Ejiofor’s decision to remain with the Red Storm ensures that St. John’s will have a strong interior presence, with Hopkins providing additional versatility.
While the recruitment of Hopkins is a major win for St. John’s, the team has also faced challenges in retaining players. One of the biggest losses is the departure of leading scorer RJ Luis Jr., who has chosen to test the NBA Draft waters while also entering the transfer portal. His absence creates a scoring gap that the Red Storm will need to address as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Despite these roster changes, Coach Pitino remains optimistic about St. John’s future. He has emphasized the need for the team to improve its offensive efficiency, particularly in terms of shooting. With Hopkins now in the mix, the Red Storm hopes to become more dynamic on both ends of the court. His scoring ability, rebounding presence, and defensive potential will be key in shaping St. John’s game plan moving forward.
Hopkins’ decision to transfer to St. John’s also adds intrigue to the Big East Conference, as his former team, Providence, will now face him as an opponent. This move is likely to intensify the already competitive nature of the conference, as both programs aim to establish themselves among the league’s elite. Hopkins’ return to form after his injury will be a storyline to watch, as he looks to make a strong impact under Pitino’s system.
The Red Storm’s offseason moves, including Hopkins’ addition, signal their commitment to competing at a high level. By securing one of the top available transfers, St. John’s has taken a significant step toward strengthening its roster for the upcoming season. While challenges remain, including filling the void left by departing players, the acquisition of Hopkins provides a promising foundation for the team’s success.
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on how Hopkins integrates into the St. John’s system and whether he can regain his pre-injury form. His journey from Kentucky to Providence and now to St. John’s highlights his resilience and determination. If he can stay healthy and perform at a high level, he has the potential to be a game-changer for the Red Storm.
Ultimately, Bryce Hopkins’ move to St. John’s is a significant development in college basketball, particularly within the Big East. With his talent and experience, he has the ability to make an immediate impact, helping the Red Storm remain competitive in a tough conference. For Coach Pitino and St. John’s, this transfer represents both a strategic acquisition and an opportunity to elevate the team’s performance in the coming season.
