St. John's Basketball: 2020 recruiting targets for the Red Storm

St. John’s Basketball: 2020 recruiting targets for the Red Storm

GREENVILLE, SC - MARCH 17: Head coach Mike Anderson of the Arkansas Razorbacks calls out in the first half while taking on the Seton Hall Pirates in the first round of the 2017 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena on March 17, 2017 in Greenville, South Carolina. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

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NEW YORK, NY – FEBRUARY 18: The mascot for the St. John’s Red Storm. (Photo by Chris Chambers/Getty Images) /

Hassan Diarra – Putnam, CT

PG | 6-foot-2 | 180 lbs | No. 62 overall

An elite point guard prospect, Hassan Diarra does a little bit of everything on the court. He exhibits excellent court vision, attacks the basket with ferocity, and more than holds his own on the defensive end of the floor. Even though SJU already holds a backcourt commitment from this class, the coaching staff is likely looking to snag a partner for Posh Alexander. Diarra could fit that bill as a top-75 floor general that recently finished a strong summer on the EYBL circuit. Over the course of 17 contests with PSA Cardinals (NY), Diarra averaged 13.2 points (.414/.286/.676), 4.6 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.3 steals per game. Diarra indicated to Zach Braziller that the SJU coaching staff has been very active in communicating with him and the talented point guard also took an unofficial visit to campus in late June.

Andre Curbelo – Puerto Rico

PG | 6-foot-0 | 155 lbs | No. 58 overall

The LuHi teammate of Zed Key, Andre Curbelo is one of the best point guards in the 2020 class. Although he does not boast elite-level size, Curbelo is a magician with the ball in his hands. He breaks down defenses extremely well and exhibits superb passing ability. To put it simply, he is about as steady as it comes with regards to running an offense while also showcasing three-level scoring ability as well. With regards to his recruitment, several high-major programs are involved with the Puerto Rican. He plays high school ball relatively close to the SJU campus and Coach Anderson might be able to land a commitment as a result. St. John’s is seeking a potential dual commitment from Curbelo/Key and that would set this class up tremendously well. Even though St. John’s has already landed a guard in this class with Posh Alexander, Curbelo would be a strong addition and they would likely be able to play alongside each other in a small backcourt. Curbelo was a fast-riser this summer and should continue to improve.