Mar 27, 2026; Washington, DC, USA; St. John’s Red Storm head coach Rick Pitino reacts in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the East Regional of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images Five-star prospect Malachi Jordan committed to St. John’s on Tuesday, becoming the program’s highest-ranked recruit since Rick Pitino was hired as head coach in March 2023.
The senior at Prolific Prep in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., is ranked No. 6 among small forwards, No. 8 in Florida and No. 20 nationally in the Class of 2027 by the 247 Sports composite.
“Coach Pitino has a rich history of developing players,” Jordan told ESPN. “The only promise he made was that he’d help me reach my full potential. He is true to his word, and I felt like his coaching and character would help get me to the next level.”
Jordan visited St. John’s on Oct. 23 following September trips to Southern California, Kansas, Vanderbilt and Tennessee. He also made October visits to Mississippi State and Alabama.
“When I went to the practices, they were very intense,” Jordan said of his St. John’s visit. “And that’s what I expected. I know that when Coach Pitino yells, he’s doing what’s best for the player and the team.”
Jordan averaged 10.8 points, 4.6 rebounds and 2.6 assists on the Nike EYBL circuit last spring and summer. He also won a silver medal with USA Basketball at the 2026 FIBA Men’s U18 AmeriCup in Leon, Mexico.
–Field Level Media
