The college basketball transfer portal continues to shape the landscape of the sport, with numerous talented players seeking new opportunities. This article highlights the most notable transfers for the upcoming season, emphasizing their skills, potential impact, and the teams they are joining.
Yaxel Lendeborg stands out as one of the premier players in the transfer portal, boasting the ability to significantly influence his new team if the NBA doesn't come calling. At 6-foot-9 and 240 pounds, Lendeborg excels in various facets of the game, including passing, dribbling, shooting, and defending. He can seamlessly transition between playing the small-ball 5 and the 4 positions. His performance in the AAC Tournament, which included an impressive 30 points, 20 rebounds, eight assists, and four blocks against East Carolina, exemplifies his game-changing ability. With an extra year of eligibility, Lendeborg is a prime candidate for First Team All-Conference honors in any league next year.
Bennett Stirtz was the driving force behind Drake's success in the Missouri Valley Conference, even leading them to a victory over Missouri in the NCAA Tournament. The 6-foot-4, 180-pound point guard is renowned for his exceptional pick-and-roll skills and is among the elite off-the-dribble shooters in college basketball, shooting over 70% at the rim on high volume. Stirtz's move to Iowa, where he will continue to play under coach Ben McCollum, positions him as a potential standout in the Big Ten.
RJ Luis Jr. brings a level of physicality that poses challenges for opposing defenses. The 6-foot-7, 215-pound wing was recognized as one of the best transition scorers in college basketball and earned the Big East Player of the Year title. With further development in shot-making and decision-making, Luis has the potential to emerge as one of the elite two-way wings in the upcoming season while keeping an eye on the NBA.
Donovan Dent is known for his exceptional feel in pick-and-roll situations, making him a formidable playmaker. The 6-foot-2 junior recorded a high percentage of his shots at the rim and can create opportunities both for himself and his teammates. After transferring to UCLA, Dent is set to take on the challenging role of point guard in Mick Cronin’s system, which features floor-spacing forwards that will complement his explosive driving ability.
Adrian Wooley emerged as one of the top freshmen in the nation while at Kennesaw State, averaging 18.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.6 assists with impressive efficiency. Standing at 6-foot-5, Wooley's versatility allows him to excel both on and off the ball. His transfer to Louisville is a strategic move, given the school's high scoring efficiency metrics. With a shooting percentage of over 41% from three-point range and 60% at the rim, Wooley is expected to make an immediate impact.
Ja'Kobi Gillespie made a significant impact in his first season at Maryland, showcasing his talents as one of the best point guards in college basketball. His ability to score from both the perimeter and the rim, combined with his defensive prowess, makes him a valuable asset. Gillespie's knack for stepping up in critical moments has cemented his reputation as a clutch player.
Silas Demary Jr. exhibited significant improvement in his performance during the latter part of the season, emerging as a tough cover in the SEC. The 6-foot-5 combo guard improved his three-point shooting to over 37%, enhancing his offensive game and making his drives more effective. Demary is expected to be a strong defensive presence as well, contributing to his new team’s overall performance.
Dedan Thomas Jr. is a dynamic point guard who excels at orchestrating the offense. Standing at 6-foot-1, he has posted impressive assist rates in his first two seasons. Thomas's ability to score from inside the arc and shoot 43% on catch-and-shoot threes makes him a valuable addition to LSU’s backcourt.
Bryce Hopkins is set to make a significant return after battling injuries that limited his playtime. The 6-foot-7, 220-pound forward is known for his physicality and skill, making him a formidable opponent on the court. His transfer to St. John's presents a chance for him to reclaim his status as an impactful player in the Big East.
Keyshawn Hall led the Big 12 in scoring with his 6-foot-7, 235-pound frame, showcasing his ability to score from various positions. His effective shooting and prowess in drawing fouls make him an exciting prospect for any team looking to enhance their offensive capabilities. Hall's transition to a new program will be closely watched as he looks to maintain his scoring prowess.
The college basketball transfer portal has opened up a wealth of opportunities for talented players to find new homes and make an impact in the upcoming season. From standout guards like Bennett Stirtz and Ja'Kobi Gillespie to versatile forwards like Yaxel Lendeborg and Bryce Hopkins, these players are poised to elevate their new teams with their skills and athleticism. As the season approaches, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how these transfers reshape the competitive landscape of college basketball.
