College basketball’s transfer portal is nearing its closure on tuesday, but the landscape for the 2025 season is already taking shape. While more players may still enter, the majority of high-profile transfers have found new homes, setting the stage for what could be a transformative season for several programs.
Of the top transfer prospects, most have already committed. Players like Texas Tech wing Darrion Williams, Florida State wing Jamir Watkins, St. John’s wing RJ Luis, Washington State wing Cedric Coward and North Carolina guard Ian Jackson are among the few remaining available.
Here’s a look at some of the most intriguing fits in the transfer portal, focusing on how these moves could benefit both the players and their new teams:
Top College Basketball Transfer Portal Fits for 2025 Season
Silas Demary Jr. to UConn: Addressing the Point Guard Void
uconn’s acquisition of silas Demary Jr. from Georgia aims to resolve their point guard inconsistency from the past season.Demary, a 6-foot-5 guard, offers a dynamic skillset reminiscent of Tristen Newton, capable of both scoring and facilitating. His stats from Georgia speak volumes: 13.5 points, 3.9 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 1.7 steals per game, with impressive shooting percentages of 37.4% from 3-point range and 80.4% from the free-throw line.
demary’s ability to excel in pick-and-roll situations and spot-up shooting aligns perfectly with UConn’s offensive system. His late-season surge with Georgia, where he averaged 19.3 points over the final 10 games, underscores his potential impact. Moreover, his defensive capabilities and knack for forcing turnovers further solidify him as a valuable addition to the Huskies.
With Demary, fellow transfer Malachi Smith (Dayton), returning sharps …
College Basketball Transfer news: Big Moves for Michigan and Auburn
Two major college basketball programs are bolstering their rosters through the transfer portal, with Michigan landing a highly-touted international prospect and Auburn adding a proven SEC performer.
Michigan Lands 7-Foot-3 Center Aday Mara
Michigan’s basketball program is set to feature a perhaps game-changing talent in 7-foot-3 center Aday Mara, formerly of UCLA. Mara, a Spanish junior, averaged 6.4 points, 4 rebounds, 1.6 blocks, and 1 assist per game last season. He was ranked No. 38 in the transfer portal.
Michigan coach Dusty May, known for his innovative use of big men, is expected to unlock Mara’s full potential. May has previously found success utilizing dual 7-footers, as evidenced by the elevated draft stock of Danny Wolf and Vlad Goldin.
Michigan’s focus on frontcourt additions is evident in their transfer portal activity, having also secured commitments from forwards yaxel Lendeborg (UAB) and Morez Johnson (Illinois), both top-six transfers. While Lendeborg and Johnson are likely starters, Mara’s role will be crucial.
During UCLA’s final 17 games,where he saw increased playing time,Mara’s stats improved to 8.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, 2.3 blocks, and 1.4 assists in just 17.1 minutes. A meaningful portion of his offense comes from low-post scoring, where he converts at a high percentage. His offensive rebounding prowess is also notable,ranking in the 99th percentile.
Beyond scoring, Mara’s passing ability is a standout attribute. His height provides a unique vantage point, allowing him to make passes that few others in the sport can. he is also a shot-blocking presence, ranking in the 100th percentile nationally in block rate.
If coach may can fully harness Mara’s skills, Michigan could become a national title contender.
Auburn Adds SEC Veteran KeShawn Murphy
Auburn has secured a commitment from KeShawn Murphy, a transfer from Mississippi State. He averaged 11.7 points,7.4 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 1.1 blocks per game last season.
with several key players from last year’s roster departing, coach Bruce Pearl aims to revamp the team, and Murphy brings proven SEC experience. He led Mississippi State in rebounding and was the team’s second-leading scorer.
Despite coming off the bench,Murphy played significant minutes for Mississippi State last season. He is expected to be a starter for the Tigers, providing valuable production and versatility.
College Basketball’s Impactful Transfers: Murphy, Veesaar, and Wooley Headline Offseason Moves
The college basketball transfer portal continues to reshape rosters across the nation, with several high-profile players switching schools and poised to make immediate impacts. Bruce Pearl has snagged a powerhouse in Johni Broome’s frontcourt Mate, while UNC has added a 7-Footer and Louisville gets a sharpshooter looking to enhance their squads in the upcoming season.
Auburn Lands Dynamic Big Man in Johni Broome’s Frontcourt Mate
Aden Holloway’s Expected frontcourt Mate, Johni Broome has a new frontcourt partner.At 6-foot-10 and 230 pounds, Johni Broome’s frontcourt partner projects as a potent offensive weapon for the tigers. Known for his smart cuts and extraordinary pick-and-roll abilities, he excels as a roller, averaging an impressive 1.368 points per possession (PPP) in such situations, placing him in the 90th percentile nationally.His effectiveness stems from his soft touch around the rim and gliding movement through the defense and that will be a huge relief to Johni Broome, a star player for auburn that requires specific attention.
North Carolina Bolsters Frontcourt with Talented 7-Footer
UNC’s frontcourt gets a significant boost with the addition of Henri Veesaar, a 7-footer from arizona. Veesaar proved his mettle when thrust into a larger role due to injuries, showcasing his prowess on both ends of the floor.Arizona’s on-off rating was a staggering 17.6 points per 100 possessions better with Veesaar on the court. He ranked among the nation’s best in 2-point percentage and offensive rebounding percentage. Notably, Veesaar excelled at offensive putbacks, scoring 1.563 PPP, a mark that placed him among the top players nationally. Defensively,he provides rim protection and impressive mobility for his size,which will enable coach Hubert Davis to run a strong defense this season.
Louisville adds Sharpshooting Transfer to Enhance Offense
Louisville’s roster gains a scoring threat in Adrian Wooley, a transfer known for his outside shooting and all-around game. Wooley arrives after averaging impressive stats at Kennesaw State: 18.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.4 steals per game, while shooting 42.2 percent from 3-point range and 76.9 percent from the free-throw line.
Louisville Lands Sharpshooting Guard Wooley, a Perfect Fit for Kelsey’s Offense
Louisville’s basketball program is poised for a significant boost with the addition of guard Nick Wooley through the transfer portal.Wooley, formerly of Western Kentucky, is seen as an ideal fit for Coach Pat Kelsey’s offensive system, which heavily emphasizes shots at the rim and 3-pointers. Wooley’s ability to excel both as a spot-up shooter and in pick-and-roll situations makes him a versatile asset for the Cardinals.
Wooley’s Offensive Prowess: A deep Dive
Wooley’s playing style aligns seamlessly with Kelsey’s strategy.During his freshman year, Wooley took over 76% of his shots either at the rim or from beyond the arc. This mirrors Louisville’s offensive approach last season when nearly 48% of their shots where 3-pointers, ranking them third among major conference teams, according to KenPom.
Elite Efficiency: Pick-and-Roll and spot-Up Shooting
According to Synergy, Wooley ranked in at least the 75th percentile nationally in all four of his most frequent offensive actions this season. He particularly shined as a pick-and-roll ball-handler and spot-up shooter.Wooley was one of just 55 Division I players to attempt at least five 3-pointers per game while converting at a 41% clip or better.
Beyond Shooting: A Versatile Threat
While his shooting ability is undeniable, Wooley’s pick-and-roll game adds another dimension to his offensive repertoire. Film study reveals impressive finishes,suggesting he can attack the basket effectively. one example is when Wooley scored half of his 28 points against Liberty in the CUSA tournament off pick-and-rolls.
A High-Profile Backcourt
Wooley joins a talented group of guards including Ryan Conwell (Xavier), Isaac McKneely (Virginia), and top-10 high school recruit Mikel Brown Jr. His all-around game is expected to earn him a prominent role on a Louisville team that is projected to be ranked in the top 10 to start next season.
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College Basketball Transfer Portal: Your Questions Answered
Stay tuned to see how these transfers and others reshape the college basketball landscape!
