April 21, 2008

QUEENS, N.Y. - St. John's head men's basketball coach Norm Roberts announced that guards Larry Wright (Saginaw, Mich.) and Mike Cavataio (Forest Hills, N.Y.) plan to transfer to other institutions following the University's spring semester.

Wright announced his intentions to transfer because of the recent discovery of an illness involving a member of his immediate family. The Red Storm shooting guard averaged 9.1 points per game in 18.9 minutes as a sophomore in 2007-08, and shot 43.4 percent from the field and 40.2 percent from long range.

"I want to thank Coach Roberts for the opportunity to represent St. John's for two years. Coach has helped me become a better player, a better student and a better person," said Wright. "Unfortunately, I feel the need to be close to my family in this situation, and will look for a place to play that is closer to home."

Cavataio played in 17 games as a rookie last season, averaging 1.4 points per contest and 1.2 rebounds in 5.9 minutes.

"I enjoyed my time at St. John's, and I think it was a great experience to have played here," said Cavataio. "I have a great relationship with my coaches and teammates and I wish my team 'good luck' as I head into a new situation, hopefully where I can earn some more minutes and play a bigger role."

"We wish Larry and Mike the best in the future," said Roberts. "Though they are making their decision for different and distinct reasons, they both put in a lot of hard work and effort in representing St. John's basketball, and they both leave our University in good academic standing."