Italian guard Federico Mussini is leaving the program to play professionally for his hometown Reggio Emilia in Italy.
“It was an honor to wear a St. John’s jersey for the last two years,” said Mussini. “This was an incredible experience for me to be a part of such a great university in New York City. I want to thank Coach Mullin and the entire coaching staff for everything I learned from them. I also want to thank all the St. John’s fans for their support at Carnesecca Arena and Madison Square Garden.”
Mussini played in 62 games and made 25 starts for the Red Storm over the past two seasons. The 6-foot-2 guard from Reggio Emilia, Italy averaged 9.5 points, 2.1 rebounds and 1.5 assists during his career in Queens. Mussini also drained 112 3-pointers and shot 85.9 percent at the free-throw line.
“We are supportive of Federico’s decision and wish him the best of luck,” said St. John’s coach Chris Mullin. “It was a pleasure to coach Federico for the last two years. He represented our program well both on and off the court. Federico is a terrific person and a model teammate with a bright future ahead.”
“I believe I am ready to take the next step in my career and play professionally back in Europe,” Mussini added. “I will never forget this experience and I am sure that my teammates will have very successful seasons ahead. I will always support them and the St. John’s basketball program.”
St. John’s returns guards Shamorie Ponds and Marcus LoVett and will add 6-5 Arizona transfer Justin Simon for the 2017-18 season. The Red Storm roster continues to transform. They have added transfers Sedee Keita (South Carolina) and Mikey Dixon (Quinnipiac) as well as Class of 2017 Brewster (N.H.) Academy wing Sidney Wilson. Meantime, they hosted 2018 wing Nassir Little over the weekend and currently have former Florida State commit Bryan Trimble, a 6-3 guard shooting guard from Sunrise Christian (KS) on campus, per a source. “He is a big-time shooter an athlete,” Sunrise coach Luke Barnwell said. “He is improving at ball-handling and decision-making.” The Johnnies will also host Hudson (N.J.) Catholic guard Luther Muhammad for an official June 23-25. St. John’s will also host a slew of prospects for their Elite Camp June 21, including Class of 2019 Ranney (N.J.) School stars Bryan Antoine and Scottie Lewis. Follow Adam Zagoria on Twitter And Like Zags on Facebook