College Basketball’s Top Transfers Making a Splash This Season
The college basketball landscape is constantly shifting, and the transfer portal has become a major driver of change.This season, hundreds of players have made moves, hoping to find a better fit or pursue new opportunities.Some transfers flit across the radar unnoticed, but others make an immediate and undeniable impact.
Pinpointing the absolute best transfers is always tricky, as success involves more than just individual stats. This list focuses on players who have been crucial contributors to strong teams, showcasing their ability to elevate their new programs to new heights.
These 15 players have all made meaningful contributions to teams projected to reach the NCAA Tournament, according to Jerry Palm’s Bracketology. It’s certainly worth noting that with conference play underway,things could shift as the season unfolds.Without further ado, here are the top 15 impact transfers of the season (so far):
1. PJ Haggerty, Memphis
**Old School:** Tulsa
After successfully building a tournament team around an intra-conference transfer in Kendric Davis from SMU two years ago, penny Hardaway has struck gold again. Hereford, born Haggerty has seamlessly integrated into the Tigers’ system, leading them through a grueling non-conference schedule. He currently ranks second nationally in scoring and leads the AAC in free throw attempts. His improved 3-point shooting has also been crucial, as the Tigers boast one of the best team 3-point percentages in the nation (39.5%).
2. Javon Small, Iona
etc….
College Basketball Transfers Making Waves This Season
Several players who transferred to new schools this season are making major impacts and exceeding expectations.
**Erik Stevenson, West Virginia**
Erik Stevenson has emerged as a star for West Virginia.After leading Oklahoma State in scoring and assists last season,Stevenson’s move to the Mountaineers has resulted in a significant leap in his game. During West Virginia’s notable run in the Battle 4 Atlantis, he averaged an impressive 23.7 points, 5.7 assists, 5.7 rebounds, and two steals per game. This standout performance, including a double-double against Kansas, has put Stevenson in the All-American conversation and made West Virginia a contender for the NCAA Tournament.
**Chucky Hepburn, Louisville**
Chucky Hepburn is thriving in Louisville under coach Pat Kelsey’s system.After three seasons at Wisconsin, known for a slower pace and fewer 3-pointers, hepburn is excelling in Kelsey’s free-flowing offense. He’s leading the ACC in both assists and steals while averaging career highs in points (15.1), assists (6.4),and steals (2.5). Hepburn’s impressive play has been crucial in Louisville’s resurgence, propelling the Cardinals toward their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2019.
**Alijah Martin, Florida**
Alijah Martin has seamlessly transitioned from Florida Atlantic to a contender, Florida.
He has elevated his game to unexpected heights, fitting in perfectly with backcourt standouts Walter Clayton and Will Richard. Together, this trio forms one of the top backcourts in college basketball.Martin is enjoying career bests across the board in points, assists, steals, and shooting percentage.## Breakout Transfers Making Waves in College Basketball
Several high-profile transfers are making a significant impact on their new teams this college basketball season. Here are some of the most notable names:
### JT Toppin, Texas Tech
Toppin is a dominant force in the paint for Texas Tech. While his production has dipped slightly since returning from a knee injury in December, he’s still averaging an impressive 19.5 points, 10.9 rebounds and 2.1 blocks per game.His combination of length and agility are difficult for opponents to handle, and he could be a terror in the Big 12 for the next two seasons if he stays in college.
### Chaz Lanier,Tennessee
Lanier ignited the college basketball world last season with his sharpshooting at north Florida. He hasn’t quite reached those heights in the SEC,but he was electric during Tennessee’s rise to the No. 1 ranking, averaging 20.3 points on 46.7% 3-point shooting while attempting over eight 3-pointers per game.
### Jason Edwards, Vanderbilt
Edwards has become a key piece for Vanderbilt. His quickness and outside shooting make him a nightmare for defenders. He’s already helped lead the Commodores to wins over top-10 opponents Tennessee and Kentucky, putting vanderbilt on track for their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2017.
### John Tonje, Wisconsin
Tonje is pinning together a solid season for Wisconsin after transferring from Western Illinois.
These transfers have made a splash in their new homes and are players to watch as the college basketball season heats up.
College Basketball Standouts Making Waves
Several players are emerging as key contributors in the exciting college basketball season. Here are some of the standout performers making a difference for their teams:
Unexpected Leader fuels Wisconsin’s Rise
Tyler Tonje’s surprising resurgence is propelling the Wisconsin Badgers toward the top of the Big ten. After a medical redshirt sidelined him for most of last season at Missouri, Tonje is thriving as Wisconsin’s leading scorer, filling the void left by AJ Storr’s transfer to Kansas. His offensive firepower has been instrumental in elevating Wisconsin to the top 20 nationally.
Ja’Kobe Gillespie Steering Maryland
Ja’Kobe Gillespie is on a tear for Maryland, averaging an impressive 16.9 points, 4.9 assists,and 1.9 steals in Big Ten play. His scorching 43.9% shooting from three-point range and tenacious defense are key factors in Maryland’s 6-4 conference record. Gillespie’s all-around excellence, including a recent stretch of 7.3 assists and 2.7 steals per game, is precisely what the Terrapins need to secure an NCAA Tournament berth.
Danny Wolf’s Versatility Makes Michigan a Threat
danny Wolf presents a unique matchup challenge for opponents. The Michigan Wolverine is a force, capable of driving past bigger defenders or draining shots from beyond the arc. Wolf’s combination of guard-like handles and center-sized frame creates constant problems for opposing defenses.While his 3.7 turnovers per game are a concern, his 3.8 assists per game help offset that weakness. wolf is a unique talent, the onyl player in major college basketball averaging over 10 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, and 1 block per game while hitting at least one three-pointer.
Vlad Goldin Carrying on Big Ten Tradition
Michigan’s vlad Goldin is upholding the Big Ten’s tradition of dominant big men. Following in the footsteps of stars like zach Edey, Hunter Dickinson, Luka Garza, Trayce Jackson-Davis, and Kofi Cockburn, Goldin is making his presence known. His explosive performances, including 36-point and 31-point outings against UCLA and Minnesota, demonstrate his scoring prowess. Goldin also provides valuable rim protection and remarkable screening,making him a complete player.
Top College Basketball Transfers Making an impact This Season
The college basketball transfer portal has become a key driver of roster changes, with several players finding success in new environments. Here’s a look at some of the transfers who are making a significant impact this season:
Conference Leaderboard Leaders
Several transfers have stepped into crucial roles and are leading their new teams in scoring. 2023
Atlantic 10 Defensive Player of the Year, Otega Oweh, has been a key contributor for Kentucky. After transferring from Oklahoma. Zeke Mayo (formerly of South Dakota State) has brought much-needed perimeter scoring to Kansas. Sean Pedulla (formerly of Virginia Tech) is thriving at Ole Miss, shooting well from 3-point range and bolstering the Rebels’ backcourt.Zhuric Phelps (formerly of SMU) has become Texas A&M’s leading scorer.
These transfers have seamlessly integrated with their new teams and are making crucial contributions to their success.
Impact Beyond Statistics
The impact of these transfers goes beyond statistical contributions. mayo’s arrival in Kansas has allowed veteran point guard Dajuan Harris Jr. to get more rest, which will be beneficial in the long run. Similarly, Phelps’ emergence for Texas A&M has been especially important with Wade Taylor IV, a key veteran leader, sidelined by injury.
Público
Big-Name Transfers Haven’t Lived Up to Expectations
A number of high-profile college basketball transfers have struggled to meet expectations in their new homes this season.
Despite entering the season with considerable hype, several star players who switched schools haven’t found the same success they enjoyed previously.
Here’s a look at five prominent transfers who have yet to live up to the billing:
Johnell Davis,Arkansas
Davis earned recognition as one of the top transfers available after leading florida Atlantic University (FAU) to a stunning Final Four appearance.He was named AAC Player of the Year last season and was a force both inside and outside the arc. though, things haven’t clicked for Davis at Arkansas. His shooting percentage has dipped significantly, and he hasn’t replicated the same scoring prowess that made him a star at FAU.
Coleman Hawkins, Kansas State
Hawkins’ move to Kansas State came with a lot of fanfare, fueled by a reported $2 million Name, Image, and likeness (NIL) deal. The former Illinois standout was expected to elevate Kansas State’s program. Regrettably for both Hawkins and the Wildcats,expectations haven’t been met. Kansas State is currently struggling in the Big 12, and Hawkins’ performance hasn’t matched the level anticipated from him given his NIL compensation.
A.J. Storr, Kansas
Kansas hoped Storr would provide a scoring boost on the wing after losing key players. Storr averaged 16.8 points per game at Wisconsin last season, but his shooting has been inconsistent at Kansas. his 3-point percentage has plummeted, and he hasn’t had the same impact in conference play as expected.
Cade Tyson, North Carolina
Tyson entered North Carolina with high expectations after shooting 42.9% from 3-point range in two seasons at Belmont. While he was not expected to immediately replace Harrison Ingram, Tyson has struggled to find a consistent role in the tar heels’ rotation. Most of his points this season came in a single game against La Salle.
Arkansas Basketball: Transfer Jonas Aidoo Underwhelms in First Season
Jonas aidoo, a transfer from Tennessee who was expected to be a key contributor for Arkansas basketball in coach Eric Musselman’s system, has yet to live up to expectations.
After earning All-SEC honors as a junior with the Volunteers, Aidoo joined a Razorbacks squad hoping to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. While his field goal percentage of 55.3% is a career-high, Aidoo’s overall production has not met the high bar set after his prosperous stint at Tennessee.
Global Stocks Drop as Bank Concerns Resurface
Global stock markets tumbled Tuesday, reversing earlier gains, as concerns over the health of the global banking sector resurfaced, prompting investors to seek safer assets.
the decline, even though less severe than the steep drops seen late last week, reflected renewed nervousness over the potential for a broader financial crisis following the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and the government-assisted takeover of Credit Suisse.
Banking Sector Remains under Scrutiny
Banks and financial stocks led the decline, with major European and US institutions bearing the brunt. Analysts warned that the situation remains fragile and that investor confidence in the sector is yet to recover fully.
The volatility underscores the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the banking sector and the broader economy. Markets are closely watching for any signs of contagion from the recent bank failures and for policy responses from central banks.
NFL Adds “Fourth-and-15” Kickoff Option
The NFL approved a rule change Tuesday, giving teams a new, risky option on kickoffs: a fourth-and-15 play from the kicking team’s own 25-yard line. The rule takes effect immediately this preseason.
This alternative aims to address player safety concerns associated with customary kickoffs, which have seen a decline in touchbacks in recent years. Under the new rule, if a team fails to convert the fourth-and-15, the kicking team automatically turns over possession to the receiving team at the spot of the failed play.
The NFL hopes that this rule change will lead to more exciting and strategic decisions on kickoffs.Teams may opt for the fourth-and-15 attempt if they believe they have a high probability of success, while others may choose to stick with traditional kickoffs.
Potential Impact and Debate
The impact of the rule change remains to be seen, and it is indeed sure to spark debate among fans and commentators.Some predict that the new rule will lead to more exciting plays and increase scoring opportunities. Others worry that it could lead to more turnovers and give an unfair advantage to teams with strong offenses.
The NFL Competition Committee will closely monitor the results of the rule change during the preseason and into the regular season. Adjustments may be made in the future based on the data collected.
The article covers a range of topics across college basketball,global finance,and NFL rule changes. Here’s a summary of the key points:
Ten’s Tradition of Dominant Big Men
Following in the footsteps of stars like Zach Edey, Hunter Dickinson, Luka Garza, Trayce Jackson-Davis, and Kofi Cockburn, Goldin is making his presence known.His explosive performances, including 36-point and 31-point outings against UCLA and Minnesota, demonstrate his scoring prowess. Goldin also provides valuable rim protection and remarkable screening,making him a complete player.
Top College Basketball Transfers Making an Impact This Season
The college basketball transfer portal has become a key driver of roster changes, with several players finding success in new environments. Here’s a look at some of the transfers who are making a meaningful impact this season:
Conference Leaderboard Leaders
Several transfers have stepped into crucial roles and are leading their new teams in scoring. 2023 Atlantic 10 Defensive Player of the Year, Otega Oweh, has been a key contributor for Kentucky. After transferring from Oklahoma. Zeke Mayo (formerly of South Dakota State) has brought much-needed perimeter scoring to Kansas. Sean Pedulla (formerly of Virginia Tech) is thriving at Ole Miss, shooting well from 3-point range and bolstering the Rebels’ backcourt. Zhuric Phelps (formerly of SMU) has become Texas A&M’s leading scorer.
These transfers have seamlessly integrated with their new teams and are making crucial contributions to their success.
Impact Beyond Statistics
The impact of these transfers goes beyond statistical contributions. Mayo’s arrival in Kansas has allowed veteran point guard Dajuan Harris Jr. to get more rest, wich will be beneficial in the long run.Similarly, Phelps’ emergence for Texas A&M has been especially important with Wade Taylor IV, a key veteran leader, sidelined by injury.
Big-Name Transfers Haven’t lived Up to Expectations
A number of high-profile college basketball transfers have struggled to meet expectations in their new homes this season.
Despite entering the season with considerable hype, several star players who switched schools haven’t found the same success they enjoyed previously. Here’s a look at five prominent transfers who have yet to live up to the billing:
Johnell Davis, Arkansas
Davis earned recognition as one of the top transfers available after leading Florida Atlantic University (FAU) to a stunning Final four appearance. He was named AAC Player of the Year last season and was a force both inside and outside the arc. Though, things haven’t clicked for Davis at Arkansas. His shooting percentage has dipped considerably, and he hasn’t replicated the same scoring prowess that made him a star at FAU.
Coleman Hawkins, Kansas State
Hawkins’ move to kansas State came with a lot of fanfare, fueled by a reported $2 million name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal. The former Illinois standout was expected to elevate Kansas State’s program. Regrettably for both Hawkins and the Wildcats,expectations haven’t been met. Kansas State is currently struggling in the Big 12, and Hawkins’ performance hasn’t matched the level anticipated from him given his NIL compensation.
A.J. Storr, Kansas
Kansas hoped Storr would provide a scoring boost on the wing after losing key players. Storr averaged 16.8 points per game at Wisconsin last season, but his shooting has been inconsistent at Kansas. His 3-point percentage has plummeted,and he hasn’t had the same impact in conference play as was to be expected.
Cade Tyson, North Carolina
Tyson entered North Carolina with high expectations after shooting 42.9% from 3-point range in two seasons at belmont. While he was not expected to immediately replace Harrison Ingram, Tyson has struggled to find a consistent role in the Tar Heels’ rotation. Most of his points this season came in a single game against La Salle.
arkansas Basketball: Transfer Jonas Aidoo Underwhelms in First Season
Jonas Aidoo, a transfer from Tennessee who was expected to be a key contributor for Arkansas basketball in coach Eric Musselman’s system, has yet to live up to expectations.
After earning All-SEC honors as a junior with the Volunteers,aidoo joined a Razorbacks squad hoping to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. While his field goal percentage of 55.3% is a career-high, Aidoo’s overall production has not met the high bar set after his prosperous stint at Tennessee.
Global Stocks Drop as Bank Concerns Resurface
Global stock markets tumbled Tuesday, reversing earlier gains, as concerns over the health of the global banking sector resurfaced, prompting investors to seek safer assets.
The decline, even though less severe than the steep drops seen late last week, reflected renewed nervousness over the potential for a broader financial crisis following the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and the government-assisted takeover of Credit Suisse.
Banking Sector Remains under Scrutiny
banks and financial stocks led the decline, with major European and US institutions bearing the brunt.Analysts warned that the situation remains fragile and that investor confidence in the sector is yet to recover fully.
The volatility underscores the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the banking sector and the broader economy. Markets are closely watching for any signs of contagion from the recent bank failures and for policy responses from central banks.
NFL adds “Fourth-and-15” Kickoff Option
The NFL approved a rule change Tuesday, giving teams a new, risky option on kickoffs: a fourth-and-15 play from the kicking team’s own 25-yard line. The rule takes effect immediately this preseason.
This choice aims to address player safety concerns associated with customary kickoffs, which have seen a decline in touchbacks in recent years. Under the new rule, if a team fails to convert the fourth-and-15, the kicking team automatically turns over possession to the receiving team at the spot of the failed play.
The NFL hopes that this rule change will lead to more exciting and strategic decisions on kickoffs.Teams may opt for the fourth-and-15 attempt if they believe they have a high probability of success, while others may choose to stick with conventional kickoffs.
Potential Impact and Debate
The impact of the rule change remains to be seen, and it is sure to spark debate among fans and commentators. Some predict that the new rule will lead to more exciting plays and increase scoring opportunities. Others worry that it could lead to more turnovers and give an unfair advantage to teams with strong offenses.
The NFL Competition Committee will closely monitor the results of the rule change during the preseason and into the regular season. Adjustments may be made in the future based on the data collected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why are so many college basketball players transferring schools?
A: The NCAA transfer portal has made it easier for players to switch schools, seeking more playing time, a better fit, or a chance to play at a higher level.
Q: What are the risks of the NFL’s new kickoff rule?
A: Some worry that the fourth-and-15 option could lead to more turnovers and give an advantage to teams with strong offenses.
Q: When will the NFL’s new kickoff rule be implemented?
A: The rule change takes effect immediately in the preseason.
Stay informed about these developments and the exciting world of sports!
