The 2024-2025 basketball season came to an end as the Florida Gators clinched the national title in dramatic style against the Houston Cougars. During the match, the Cougars kept their edge for most of the time, yet ultimately, it was the Gators rejoicing in San Antonio. As this season wraps up formally, anticipation mounts around the upcoming surge in activity within the transfer portal.
Although teams have started recruiting and getting pledges, those advancing to the concluding weekend encounter distinct obstacles compared to those who were knocked out sooner or did not qualify for the tournament altogether.
The biggest surprise during the NCAA Tournament occurred when Rick Pitino decided to bench his top performer, RJ Luis. Even after nearly a month since this call, the head coach remains steadfast in his choice, even though Luis was instrumental in getting the Johnnies so far.
Absolutely the correct choice not fielding RJ Luis in that match, Pitino said.
Following the match, Pitino faced questions from the press, and The head coach at St. John's promptly shot back at the journalist's query.
In spite of the disagreement, Pitino speaks very highly of Luis.
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Without RJ, our season wouldn’t have been what it was, but I believe he should aim for the NBA. Pitino informed Zach Braziller from the New York Post. We've seen him reach his full potential here. Now, I believe the NBA is where he truly belongs, and we're all cheering for him to get there.
Luis joined the draft and simultaneously signed up for the transfer portal, keeping his eligiblity intact. The athlete eventually broke their silence, making veiled comments critical of Pitino.
As he has throughout the entire year, simply providing better guidance and support. Luis said.
The Big East Player of the Year believes his previous mentor did not manage the circumstance appropriately or provide the consistent support he received during the season. Even though Luis asserts that this event was not why he decided to enter the transfer portal, his statement implies quite the contrary.