The 1970-1971 media guide was effusive in its praise for its tallest recruit of the class of 1973: "Lanky John Connors, a product of Cardinal Spellman High in the Bronx, greatly improved spectators who witnessed his 1969-1970 freshman play. The agile 6-7 pivot has excellent timing and can shoot and rebound equally well."

Connors posted a 20 point, 13 rebound per game average on the freshman team, but was ineffective as a sophomore. His 185 lb. frame offered him little protection as a power forward, and his shooting of just 36 percent from the field limited his impact even further.

In the summer of 1971, Connors transferred to Manhattan. A New York Times article inaccurately noted that Connors had transferred following a 13 points per game season at GU, interrupted by injury. In fact, Connors scored just 52 points at Georgetown, and matched that number with 52 points at Manhattan in 12 games over two seasons.