St. John’s basketball March Madness hero Dylan Darling bolts for transfer portal
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St. John’s basketball faces a significant hurdle as guard Dylan Darling has entered the NCAA transfer portal following the program’s deep postseason run. The development signals a likely departure and forces the Red Storm to adjust their roster moving forward.
Darling, a redshirt junior, officially entered the portal on Tuesday, just weeks after St. John’s reached the Sweet 16—its best tournament finish since 1999. While entering the portal does not guarantee an exit, it often indicates a strong possibility of a move.
During the 2025–26 season, the guard played a steady role, averaging 6.9 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game. His impact extended beyond the stat sheet, especially in March. Darling delivered a game-winning layup vs. the Kansas Jayhawks, securing a Sweet 16 berth for the Red Storm while cementing his place in program history.
On3Sports’ affiliate page, On3 Transfer Portal, reported the news, citing insider Pete Nakos, who first confirmed Darling’s decision.
“NEW: St. John’s guard Dylan Darling has entered the NCAA transfer portal, @PeteNakos reports.
Darling averaged 6.9 points, 2.5 rebounds and 2.6 assists per game this season.”
The move reflects broader roster changes under head coach Rick Pitino . St. John’s recently added European guard Quinn Ellis, a development that could reshape the team’s backcourt rotation and influence roles heading into next season.
His exit from the Red Storm also creates additional opportunity for younger guards to step into expanded roles as the program continues reshaping its roster.
Pitino’s approach continues to define the program’s offseason strategy. The Red Storm are balancing incoming talent with potential departures as they navigate the transfer portal. This process adds urgency as the team looks to sustain momentum from its breakthrough campaign.
For St. John’s, Darling’s decision carries both emotional and strategic implications. He leaves behind a defining tournament moment while pursuing a new opportunity elsewhere.
As the offseason unfolds, the Red Storm must quickly recalibrate their roster to remain competitive and build on the success of their recent postseason run.
