Five-star Malachi Jordan committed to St. John’s on Tuesday, becoming the program’s highest-profile hire since Rick Pitino was hired as head coach in March 2023.
The senior from Prolific Prep in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., is ranked No. 6 among small forwards by the 247 Sports composite, No. 8 in Florida and No. 20 nationally in the Class of 2027.
“Coach Pitino has a rich history of developing players,” Jordan told ESPN. “The only promise he made was that he would help me reach my full potential. He is true to his word, and I felt that his coaching and character would help take me to the next level.”
After September visits to Southern California, Kansas, Vanderbilt and Tennessee, Jordan returned to St. Louis on Oct. 23. Visited John’s. He also visited Mississippi State and Alabama in October.
“When I went to practice, they were very intense,” said Jordan, a St. About John’s visit. “And that’s what I expect. I know 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 in the Nike EYBL last spring and summer. He also won a silver medal with Team USA Basketball at the 2026 FIBA U18 Men’s Copa America in Leon, Mexico.
– Field Level Media