St. John’s ace RJ Luis Jr. has decided to enter the transfer portal and declare for the 2025 NBA Draft, and he is among the most desired players in college basketball. The Big East Player of the Year nearly dominated in the season but finished with a deflating March Madness loss. With the potential to earn huge NIL money if he stays in college, Luis must decide on his future.
RJ Luis Jr Breakout Year Ends In Disappointment
Luis was the country’s top player at 18.2 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game. His stabilizing defense and virtually elite-level shot-making made him the centerpiece of Rick Pitino’s squad. He shined on the biggest of stages, delivering 28 points and 11 rebounds in the season-ending regular-season game against Marquette and going for a 29-point, 10-rebound masterpiece in the Big East tournament title game against Creighton.
The postseason, however, was a rollercoaster ride. After his 22 points and five 3-pointers in St. John’s NCAA Tournament first-round win over Omaha, Luis labored miserably in their second-round loss to Arkansas. Registering only 3-for-17 from the field, he failed to crack double digits for the second time this year and was sent to the bench for the final 4:56 of the contest, during which the Red Storm were outscored 11-4.
Transfer Portal Or NBA Draft Pick
Ranked No. 72 on ESPN’s draft board, Luis is testing NBA waters while keeping the door open to returning to school. He will be the No. 1 transfer portal target overnight if he returns. CBS Sports reports that he could command at least $1.5 million in NIL deals, which is a good reason to hold off on turning pro.
Luis’s relationship with Rick Pitino appeared to wear thin at season’s end, especially after the coach’s postgame remarks during the Arkansas game. While other players were being complimented on giving it their all, Luis was noticeably not mentioned, contributing another twist of interest to his transfer choice. If he is back in college, a few big-name programs will surely have their sights on the Miami product.
Final Thoughts
Luis’s decision next will set the course for his professional future, impact the NBA Draft, and shake the college basketball landscape. His size, talent, and versatility as an NBA prospect are intriguing, but a fourth year in college could enhance his draft stock. Whether he stays in the portal or leaps to the pros, Luis will be one of the largest names to watch this offseason. His decision will be watched intently as he weighs financial opportunities and his basketball future.
