JaKarr Sampson is headed back to Queens.
After being ruled ineligible at the beginning of the 2011-12 school year, Sampson returned to Brewster Academy for a prep year.
Though he took time to look elsewhere, Brian Snow of Scout.com is reporting that Sampson will return to St. John’s in the fall of 2012.
He was being courted by Baylor, Kansas, Providence, and others.
Sampson is an ultra-athletic wing and the most important target for St. John’s in the Class of 2012. His commitment to return to Queens signals a turn for the better and fruits of labor for Steve Lavin’s inroads on the recruiting trail.
In the fall of 2011, in the wake of Nurideen Lindsey leaving the program and the decommitment of Darrick Wood, Norvel Pelle, Ricardo Gathers, and Sampson, himself, questions were raised about the direction of the program.
It took time, but the questions are being answered. All of the behind-the-scenes work by Lavin and his staff, as St. John’s completed its strong 2011-12 season, is culminating in this grand stage performance, beginning with Sampson’s recommitment.
Sampson was dominant at Brewster this past season, leading his team to a national championship and showing why he is more than worthy of the high-major interest he was garnering.
He is St. John’s third recruit for Steve Lavin in the Class of 2012. Felix Balamou committed last week, while Texas A&M transfer Jamal Branch will be eligible in the second semester of the 2012 season. Lavin has said that the Red Storm are looking to sign five players during the spring signing period.
Wouldn’t Felix Balamou be Lavin’s first recruit of the 2012 class? JaKarr is number two.
Isnt Felix the first recruit?
agreed on the centereach kid. JaKarr might be the first BIG recruit though this year. that much sounds true. huge “GET” by lavin. well done. now go grab 2 juco’s and 3 more frosh.
actually Branch, then Felix then Jakaar