Big East Basketball: Ranking the top 20 transfers for the 2024-2025 season
By John Makuch
20. Christ Essandoko (Providence)
When it comes to the transfer portal look no further than Kim English and the Providence Friars for finding success this offseason. Christ Essandoko had plenty of programs across the nation in hot pursuit of his talents, but he eventually landed on the Friars, with this being the second time he has committed to this school after an initial commitment in 2021 that did not end up happening.
He started in 15 of his 25 appearances for Saint Josephs and averaged 8.2 points and 5.7 rebounds with some solid defense down low as well. He dealt with a toe injury this past season, but that should be just fine when it comes to next season. For a young player like him, it is all about consistency, and as a big man that can be hard to find, especially in the rough and tough Big East Conference. But his skill set and size are undeniable, and English has done a great job with player development throughout his career.
Esssandoko is a low-risk, high-ceiling type of transfer, and the Friars could have a nice piece here out of the Hawks’ program. For a team that has needed a big man like him for some time now, it will be nice for Friar fans to see a player with this level of rim protection. He also showed he can compete in the Big East in the NIT, he put up 14 points and eight rebounds in a loss to the Seton Hall Pirates. Will Essandoko be a star big though? That is yet to be seen, but English and crew will do all they can to get him to that level.