Full Breakdown
St. John's Basketball Secures Commitment from Montenegrin Wing Dordije Jovanovic
4/18/2026, 10:39:09 PM
New Addition to the Roster
St. John’s University has bolstered its basketball roster by securing a commitment from 6-foot-8 Montenegrin wing Dordije Jovanovic. The announcement comes shortly after the Red Storm acquired EuroLeague point guard Quinn Ellis, marking a significant move in the team’s recruitment strategy under head coach Rick Pitino. Jovanovic, 22, has been playing for Buducnost VOLI in the EuroCup and Adriatic Basketball Association (ABA), where he averaged 4.9 points and shot 38 percent from three-point range over 16 games. His previous experience includes time in the G League with the Ontario Clippers, where he averaged 5.6 points and 2.4 rebounds during the 2023-24 season.
Recruitment Strategy and Future Prospects
St. John’s has been actively reshaping its roster, having recruited Jovanovic for over a month amidst significant interest from several power-conference schools. A European scout described Jovanovic as a solid spot-up shooter and a versatile defender capable of contributing as a role player in the Big East. The Red Storm is also in pursuit of top centers in the transfer portal, including Arizona State’s Massamba Diop and Cincinnati’s Moustapha Thiam. The team recently hosted several prospects, including Robert Morris forward DeSean Goode and Kentucky forward Mo Dioubate, as they look to enhance their lineup further.
Departures and Team Dynamics
The team has seen notable departures, losing players such as Dylan Darling, who announced his transfer to Grand Canyon, along with Joson Sanon, Sadiku Ibine Ayo, Lefteris Liotopoulos, Imran Suljanovic, and Kelvin Odih to the transfer portal. Despite these losses, St. John’s is expected to retain key players like wing Ian Jackson and big man Ruben Prey, which could provide a stable foundation as they integrate new talent.
Official Statements & Responses
Rick Pitino’s recruitment of international players like Jovanovic reflects a strategic shift aimed at enhancing the team's competitiveness in the Big East. The addition of Jovanovic is seen as a step towards building a more diverse and skilled roster capable of making a significant impact in the upcoming season.
Criticism & Opposition
While the recruitment of international players has been met with enthusiasm, some critics question the reliance on transfers and international talent over developing homegrown players. This perspective highlights the ongoing debate about the balance between immediate results and long-term player development in college basketball.
Verbatim Quotes
- “A European scout familiar with Jovanovic said he’s a solid spot-up shooter and blue-collar player who can contribute as a role player in the Big East.” — European Scout
As St. John’s continues to navigate the transfer portal, the focus remains on building a competitive team that can contend in the Big East, with Jovanovic's addition marking a promising start to this endeavor.
