Almost closing time

Good morning! We’re down to the final hours for entering the transfer portal. Now these players just have to find a new place to play.

So let’s get to Monday’s news.

1.  St. John’s found its … point guard?

Rick Pitino and St. John’s have tried to fill the void left at the point from Kadary Richmond and Deivon Smith. The Johnnies seem to have found their man: former North Carolina guard Ian Jackson.

Jackson is known as a scorer. He played two guard at North Carolina this season and for most of his prep career. But all signs are pointing to him playing the one for the Red Storm.

The former 5-star prospect was ranked as the No. 8 overall available transfer by 247Sports and 24th by Evanmiya.com.

During his freshman season, Jackson averaged 11.9 points, 2.7 rebound and 0.9 assists per game while shooting 45.6% from the field and 60-of-152 (39.5%) from 3-point range. (That perimeter shooting is a much-needed boost for St. John’s.)

From late December into January, Jackson had an incredible seven-game sequence where he averaged 22.7 points per game and led the Tar Heels to a 6-1 record. After that stretch, Jackson posted just 20+ points per game once more.

He’ll be looking to find a more consistent role under Pitino, as Jeff Goodman and Rob Dauster discussed on Monday.

This will be a homecoming for Jackson, also known as “Captain Jack.” He’s from the Bronx and will have the opportunity to play for New York City’s college basketball program. That’s a big move for him, and for Pitino’s continued rebranding effort of college hoops in NYC.

2. Kentucky adds a national champ + more portal commits

Denzel Aberdeen won a national title with Florida this past season and was set for a starting role in the Gator’s backcourt next year. But instead, the Florida native entered the transfer portal and has now found a new home with Kentucky.

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