Joel Soriano says goodbye to St. John's basketball, declares NBA Draft intentions

The St. John's basketball career of Joel Soriano is over.

It ended abruptly but the two-time captain has said his final goodbye to the Johnnies.

"To St. John's, you took a kid in and made him a man," Soriano posted on social media Monday afternoon.

"From the faculty and staff to the coaches and the fans, you guys took me in as one of your own and have me love and memories that would last a lifetime, and for that I am forever grateful."

He became the first player to commit to the program after Rick Pitino was named as the head coach last March and was immediately named as the team's captain, which he averaged 13.8 points and 9.5 rebounds this season.

Joel Soriano played his first two seasons at Fordham before transferring to St. John's ahead of the 2021-22 campaign.

"Even though we didn't reach our end goal, I promise you I left everything out on that floor every night and put that jersey on with pride," he continued. "St. John's will be with me for life!!"

Soriano was named as the Big East's Most Improved Player in 2023 after averaging 6.4 points per game during his first season with the school and 15.2 points as a senior, eaning Second Team All-Big East honors.

He was named to the Preseason All-Big East First Team prior to this year.

"To my teammates over the years, my brother I love you guys [for life]. We've been through so much together and have built memories that we will tell on for life."

"With that being said, I finally get to chase my dream that I has since I picked up a basketball!! I am declaring for the 2024 NBA Draft and signing with an agent!"

Soriano, who no longer has any college eligibility remaining, shined last weekend in the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament, an event that allows college players to compete in front of NBA and international scouts, averaging 17.3 points and 12.7 rebounds over the course of three games.

Chris Ledlum, who is also currently out of eligibility, announced he was declaring for the 2024 NBA Draft but is still awaiting a decision from the NCAA on a potential waiver that would grant him, along with Jordan Dingle, a fifth year of eligibility.

Dingle has not announced any plans to enter the NBA Draft, but it is the most likely option as he awaits a decision on his future.

Daniss Jenkins is also preparing for the NBA after his final season ended.