UNLV picks up St. John’s transfer Christian Jones

UNLV received help for its frontcourt Tuesday when Christian Jones decided to transfer from St. John’s.

The 6-foot-7-inch forward is a graduate transfer who will be eligible to play immediately.

He spent the previous four years — playing three — with the Red Storm. Jones played in all 32 games last season and started 19, averaging 8.4 points and 5.2 rebounds.

“The reason I chose UNLV was, No. 1, Coach (Marvin) Menzies,” Jones said in a text message. “When he first contacted me, we clicked and connected right away. He told me what he needed, and I was on board right after that. I have one more year left, and I don’t have any time to play around. Coach is new to the team, and he and I know that anyone’s first year they have no room to take lightly. So I knew (when) he says he needs me, then he really means it.

“I honestly wish I had more years to play under him. The coaching staff were all nice, and we all connected as well. With being one of the oldest on the team, I know I can guide the younger guys into what it takes to win games despite my last season at St. John’s.”

The Red Storm went 8-24 last season, but won at least 20 games each of the previous two seasons.

Jones also said he was impressed with the Thomas & Mack Center and called getting the chance to play in Las Vegas “a joy in itself.”

“We are very pleased and excited to announce the addition of Christian to the program,” Menzies said in a statement. “He is another significant addition to our roster for this season and brings us immediate experience, toughness and leadership. We had instant chemistry from our first conversation on the phone, and I am confident that his short journey as a Runnin’ Rebel will be very productive.”

Another UNLV signee, Kris Clyburn, underwent surgery in Las Vegas to repair a small tear in his right meniscus. Clyburn said the expected recovery time is four to six weeks.

“Might’ve been the best sleep of my life,” Clyburn tweeted.

Thank god

— Flight21 (@Kris_Clyburn21) June 14, 2016

Might've been the best sleep of my life

— Flight21 (@Kris_Clyburn21) June 14, 2016

Clyburn, a 6-6 guard from Ranger (Texas) College, was the North Texas Junior College Athletic Association Defensive Player of the Year. He averaged 14.3 points and 5.2 rebounds, and made 59.9 percent of his shots, including 50.8 on 3-pointers.

Clyburn was the first player to sign with UNLV under Menzies.

Menzies, who built the great majority of the roster after being hired April 22, still has one spot to fill, if he chooses. He also has begun recruiting for the 2017 class.

Contact Mark Anderson at manderson@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2914. Follow him on Twitter: @markanderson65