Lawrence Becomes Latest One & Done For Johnnies

Omari Lawrence became latest player to leave St. John's, announcing his intent to transfer yesterday. (Photo courtesy of redstormsports.com)

Even though St. John's steadily improved under former head coach Norm Roberts, the Red Storm also had to deal with some of Roberts' recruits transferring at some point during their tenure in Queens, citing numerous reasons for the change of scenery. Yesterday, another Roberts recruit proved that although times (and coaches now that Steve Lavin is at the helm of the Johnnies) may change, some things just stay the same; as Omari Lawrence announced his decision to transfer after just one season at St. John's, where he averaged 2.5 points per game as a freshman while coming off the bench for Roberts.

The man that would have been his new head coach had Lawrence remained in Queens wished him well, however. "We wish Omari all the best," said Steve Lavin after learning of the guard's intended exodus. "He is a talented player with a bright future, and he leaves St. John's University in good academic standing."

Lawrence's departure now vacates another scholarship for Lavin, who has been nothing short of aggressive on the recruiting trail since being introduced as St. John's new head man on March 31st. In just seven weeks on the job, Lavin has already managed to lure highly-regarded California high school star Dwayne Polee to Queens, and fellow West Coast prospect Remi Barry has been talked about as well. Although Barry has yet to give any school a verbal commitment, he has listed St. John's as one of the schools in his top three; joining Arizona State and UCLA, the latter for whom Lavin coached seven years before joining ESPN as a color commentator.