A potentially disastrous offseason for the St. John's men's basketball team was saved after they landed coveted recruit Adonis Delarosa several weeks ago and officially welcomed the return of center Chris Obekpa yesterday, ESPN reported.

In early April, Obekpa had been granted his release from the university -- probably because of inconsistent playing time and lack of involvement in head coach Steve Lavin's offense. An oddly worded tweet after news of his impending transfer first became public seemed to confirm as much.

"I just want to be prosperous to help others.. no other reason..," went the tweet.

The 6-foot-11 Obekpa played just 20 minutes per game for the Red Storm this past season and averaged just under four points per game. But he also blocked almost three shots per night; in just two seasons, he's already the program's all-time leader in the category. At times, Obekpa was dominant on the defensive end. Even when his offense was basically non-existent -- like against Villanova on Feb. 22 -- Obekpa could be one of the most impactful players on the floor. If he ever develops his offense, he might have a shot at the NBA.

Around the same time news leaked of Obekpas potential transfer, his good friend Max Hooper was granted his release (and has since transferred to Oakland), while fellow sophomore Jakar Sampson declared for the NBA draft. After a disappointing yet encouraging season, St. John's was suddenly looking like a disaster story.

"After giving consideration to transferring, it's become clear that it makes the most sense to continue my career as a student-athlete at St. John's," Obekpa said. "I will do whatever is necessary to win back the trust of my coaches, teammates and our fans. My brothers and I have unfinished business and I am determined to help St. John's continue the climb up the mountain."

"Chris approached me last week to communicate his change of heart and wishes to stay at St. John's," Lavin said in a statement. "After good dialogue we are pleased to announce Chris will continue his career as a student-athlete with the Red Storm."