Pitt announces signing of hard-nosed guard Jamarius Burton

The Panthers made it official Friday when they announced the transfer of Texas Tech guard Jamarius Burton, who averaged 4.3 points, 1.8 rebounds and 1.3 assists this past season for the Red Raiders.

Burton announced his commitment to the program Tuesday, marking the second transfer Jeff Capel has brought in this week. Oakland transfer Dan Oladapo officially signed with the program Wednesday.

Capel said he was excited to add the hard-nosed guard to the program.

“Jamarius is a gritty, hard-nosed guard with the strength and athleticism to impact the game on both ends of the floor,” Capel said in a statement. “With his size, versatility and toughness, he fits in nicely with the roster we are building. He has the ability to provide veteran leadership, and we are excited about the winning mentality he brings to the program.”

The Charlotte, N.C., native will have two years of eligibility remaining after playing at both Wichita State and Texas Tech. In 90 career games, 56 of which he started in, Burton has averaged 7.0 points, 3.0 rebounds and 2.8 assists.

Burton had a big impact as a sophomore at Wichita State, averaging 10.3 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game for the Shockers. He’ll bring a veteran presence to the Pitt locker room next year, which comes after starting guards Xavier Johnson and Au’Diese Toney decided to transfer.

Pitt could return a large chunk of its scoring production if Justin Champagnie decides to forego the 2021 NBA Draft and return to Pitt for his junior season. Guards Ithiel Horton (8.9 ppg.) and Nike Sibande (6.9 ppg.) are also set to return this season along with Femi Odukale, who averaged 6.6 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game last season.