St. John’s Freshman Receives Partial Eligibility

St. John’s head men’s basketball coach Chris Mullin (Photo by Catalina Fragoso – Double G Media)

Yesterday, the NCAA made its final decision on St. John’s freshman guard, Marcus LoVett’s eligibility. After a long process, he received partial qualifier status.

LoVett will remain a student at the University but will have to complete one full year of residence at the University before he can complete in game competition. He is allowed to practice with the team while he meets NCAA continuing eligibility requirements.

St. John’s interim athletic director and general counsel, Joseph Oliva, Esq, put in his two sense by telling Bleacher Report, “The University disagrees with the NCAA’s decision and the process it used in reviewing Marcus’ initial eligibility waiver request.” He continued to state how the school has had many conversations with the NCAA because they believe the NCAA’s process may have violated LoVett’s legal rights. The NCAA disregarded these concerns and LoVett’s family were advised by St. John’s to consult with an appropriate legal counsel to talk about the options that are available to challenge the NCAA ruling.

The Red Storm’s head coach Chris Mullin also believes Marcus LoVett deserves to play and that he has done everything that was asked of him. Mullin, Oliva, and the rest of the St. John’s staff have LoVett’s back and will continue to encourage him to work hard throughout this and to prepare him for next season.