Yankuba Sima is leaving the St. John's program. USATSI

Sophomore center Yankuba Sima is transferring from St. John's, the team announced Friday.

Sima is a 6-foot-11 center from Spain who started 18 games as a freshman, averaging 7.6 points and 2.5 blocks -- both marks second-best in the Big East Conference.

His production, along with playing time, saw a small decrease this season, which could have contributed to his decision. Although he started 8 of 10 games and averaged 6 points per game, his minutes per game dropped off by more than 5 minutes from his freshman year.

"I want to thank the coaching staff and the administration for all of their support since I arrived at St. John's," Sima said in a statement. "I enjoyed my experience at St. John's, but right now I feel it is best for me to explore options that will be a better fit for me as I work toward my goals."