The “transfer portal” has completely exploded in the sport of NCAA Basketball, with over 1,500 D-I players opting to leave their respective teams to go somewhere else. There are many reasons why that can be talked about at any time but with the season around 40 days away, it’s time to focus on what will happen on the court.
A lot of that will be hard to predict, considering the potential roles that the transfers will have going to their new stops. Some will become breakout national stars, while others will fade into the background and stay on the bench.
There are a ton of good players that have moved around and many will be solid contributors. But which ones will have the biggest “overall impact” both statistically as an individual and on the team as well? Here’s a ranking of the top 100 players that will affect the 2022-23 season.
*Two players that would’ve made the list were Fardaws Aimaq (top-10) and Emoni Bates (top-80) but due to their respective injury and legal issues, it’s not clear that either will play this upcoming season so I opted to leave them out.
Honorable Mention: Femi Odukale – Seton Hall Pirates
The 6’5 guard was the point guard at Pitt last season but it didn’t end up as a good fit overall. He goes to a system at Seton Hall where his defensive potential can be realized and Odukale can play more off-ball, where he fits best. If he becomes a more willing shooter from deep, Odukale will be a nice asset for the Pirates.
HM: Sean McNeil – Ohio State Buckeyes
The 6’3 shooting guard averaged 12.2 ppg on 37% three-point shooting in the past two years at West Virginia. McNeil is a veteran guard that’ll help space the floor for Ohio State. With so many new guards, how big a role he’ll have in the rotation is unknown but McNeil’s shooting ability alone will keep him in the mix.
HM: Jermaine Couisnard – Oregon Ducks
One of the more consistent players in NCAA Basketball, Couisnard has averaged around 12.0 ppg and 3.0 rpg in the last three years as a starter at South Carolina. He’s not very efficient with a career shooting percentage of 37%. The 6’4 guard could be more efficient with a lesser role with the Ducks and playing second fiddle to Will Richardson in the backcourt.
HM: Noah Williams – Washington Huskies
After averaging over 14 ppg as a sophomore, Williams saw his numbers dip a lot last season at Washington State. He’s another inefficient scorer but the 6’5 senior can go off when he’s feeling it. In order to replace 21 ppg scorer Terrell Brown, look for Williams to try and take the lead.
HM: Donald Carey – Maryland Terrapins
Carey was second in scoring for Georgetown last season at 13.5 ppg and has over 100 career NCAA Basketball starts for three different programs. The 6’5 guard has a career 39% shooting from deep and showed that he can be productive. Look for him to be in the rotation and a potential replacement for Eric Ayala for the Terrapins.
100. Devin Askew – Cal Bears
2021-22 stats (at Texas): 2.1 ppg and 1.3 apg
This is a scenario where the remaining belief is the former five-star prospect will finally play on a team that isn’t loaded with talent already, which was the case at both Texas and Kentucky. He joins a Cal team that lost Jordan Sheppard and has little scoring on the roster. If he can’t be a starter on the Bears then Askew isn’t cut out for the power conference level.
99. Brandon Huntley-Hatfield – Louisville Cardinals
2021-22 stats (at Louisville): 3.9 ppg and 2.9 rpg
Another former five-star prospect, the 6’10 and 240-pound big man struggled to have a role with the Vols. He’s the lone transfer for the Cardinals this offseason so there will be expectations. The question here will be whether or not he can play the power forward position and be a good fit next to starting center Sydney Curry in the frontcourt. For the team to be any good this season they’ll need it to work.
98. Earl Timberlake – Bryant Bulldogs
2021-22 stats (at Memphis): 4.7 ppg and 3.4 rpg
The former top-40 recruit showed signs of promise at both Miami and Memphis but neither situation worked out for him. He now goes all the way to the America East level, where he could potentially be a star. Timberlake is best when his all-around game is utilized so don’t expect him to be a 20 ppg scorer but he should be a key piece for the Bulldogs.
97. Lance Terry – Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
2021-22 stats (at Gardner-Webb): 14.3 and 3.4 rpg
The 6’3 scoring transfer was a solid player last season in his lone year as a starter but the transition from the Big South to the ACC could be rough. But Georgia Tech doesn’t have any other clear perimeter option now that Mike Devoe is gone so Terry should have plenty of chances to be the focal point of the offense.
96. Terry Roberts – Georgia Bulldogs
2021-22 stats (at Bradley): 14.5 ppg and 4.1 apg
The 6’3 scoring guard had six games of at least 20 points last season as he led Bradley in scoring. He joins the SEC program that has a new head coach and mostly new roster outside of returning double-digit scoring guard Kario Oquendo. Roberts likely will play more at point and if this duo can be effective, Georgia could be a surprise squad in league play.
95. David Jenkins Jr. – Purdue Boilermakers
2021-22 stats (at Utah): 8.5 ppg and 1.7 apg
Jenkins was a quality scorer at both South Dakota State and UNLV but failed to produce much at the Pac-12 level for a lowly Utah team. So his chances of being a top option for a Big Ten team aren’t high. But outside of star center Zach Edey, Purdue doesn’t have much offense on paper so they’ll need Jenkins to be a double-digit scorer as a likely starter this season.
94. Jaiden Delarie – San Diego Toreros
2021-22 stats (at Stanford): 10.1 ppg and 4.0 rpg
Delarie was a starting forward at Stanford so the move down the WCC could allow his stats to get a nice boost. He joins another Pac-12 transfer Eric Williams to form a solid frontcourt for first-year head coach Steve Lavin. As the low-post player of the two, look for Delarie to be a focal point of the offense.
93. Bryce Golden – Loyola-Chicago Ramblers
2021-22 stats (at Butler): 8.8 ppg and 3.6 rpg
The 6’9 center started 88 games in the last three seasons at Butler and averaged just under 10.0 ppg in over 20 mpg. His impact was limited at the Big East level but has the chance to put up some numbers for the Ramblers at their new home in the Atlantic 10. Golden is a physical big who should be able to anchor the defense and among the new transfers, has the highest floor and is most likely not to bust.
92. Sam Griesel – Nebraska Cornhuskers
2021-22 stats (at North Dakota State): 14.3 ppg and 6.6 rpg
The 6’6 wing was an effective scorer at the Summit League level and was an underrated passer as well. The Cornhuskers will hope that his offense translates to the Big Ten because on paper, it’s hard to find where they’ll find offense outside of Griesel. If he’s not effective this season, Nebraska could be doomed.
91. Dexter Dennis – Texas A&M Aggies
2021-22 stats (at Wichita State): 8.4 ppg and 5.0 rpg
Dennis is a naturally good fit for head coach Buzz Williams and the Aggies as he is the reigning Defensive Player of the Year in the AAC. The 6’5 guard can rebound and has some scoring ability but will likely be designated as the defensive stopper of the SEC’s best perimeter scorer. And that alone makes him an impact transfer.
90. Caleb Murphy – DePaul Blue Demons
2021-22 stats (at South Florida): 11.4 ppg and 3.4 apg
Murphy is a veteran ball-handler that can play on and off the ball for DePaul this season. He’s not flashy or powerful but consistent and that’s the production his new team needs. He and Oklahoma transfer Umoja Gibson will be a solid duo this upcoming season, while top-50 freshman Zion Cruz will also fit into the backcourt rotation.
89. Jayden Martinez – North Texas Mean Green
2021-22 stats (at New Hampshire): 14.9 ppg and 5.5 rpg
The Mean Green is one of the best defensive teams in the country and added some scoring firepower with Martinez, a 6’7 combo forward with four years of experience and shooting nearly 40% from deep. As long as he fits into the defensive scheme and is a double-digit scorer, North Texas will certainly benefit.
88. Isaac Likelele – Ohio State Buckeyes
2021-22 stats (at Oklahoma State): 7.1 ppg, 5.5 rpg
The 6’5 guard is one of the better non-scoring all-around players in NCAA Basketball, with 110 career starts with the Cowboys in four years and the defacto point guard for them. His lack of shooting ability limits what he can do but Ohio State can have him as Jamari Wheeler’s replacement in the backcourt.
87. Dashawn Davis – Mississippi State Bulldogs
2021-22 stats (at Oregon State): 10.9 ppg and 5.5 apg
The former JUCO star had a fairly solid individual campaign, despite the team winning just three games total last season. Davis was able to rack up the assists as well and along with Shakeel Moore will run the Miss State offense. His lack of shooting may be a concern at the SEC level.
86. Dom Welch – Alabama Crimson Tide
2021-22 stats (at St. Bonaventure): 12.3 ppg and 6.0 rpg
Welch is a 6’5 two-way player with 104 career starts in four years at the A-10 level. He took a ton of three-pointers as well, making on average 37% on over seven attempts from deep. He’s the type of “3 and D” player that the Tide needs but with so many perimeter options, Welch may not have the biggest role.
85. Victor Bailey – George Mason Patriots
2021-22 stats (at Tennessee): 2.6 ppg and 0.9 rpg
The 6’4 guard was pushed out of the main rotation last season via the freshmen guards but Bailey was a double-digit scorer for them the year prior and was also effective in two years at Oregon. He’ll be at the A-10 now and likely will have the ball in his hands more since George Mason doesn’t have a proven point guard yet on the roster.
84. Brayon Freeman – Rhode Island Rams
2021-22 stats (at George Washington): 10.3 ppg and 3.7 apg
The 6’2 guard has a very good freshman campaign, including shooting better from three-point range (43%) than he did from inside the arc. Rhode Island has a bunch of new pieces under new head coach Archie Miller so the pecking order of the roster is TBD but on paper, Freeman is most likely to be the focal point of the offense.
83. Meechie Johnson – South Carolina Gamecocks
2021-22 stats (Ohio State): 4.4 ppg and 1.2 apg
The former top-100 prospect wasn’t going to be on this list before but that changed after another incoming transfer (Ebrima Dibba) got hurt and is out for the season. Johnson now is set to be the lead guard in the backcourt for the Gamecocks and first-year head coach Lamont Paris. When not dealing with injuries, Johnson showed that he can be a power conference player. He’ll have extended minutes to prove that.
82. Dae Dae Grant – Duquesne Dukes
2021-22 stats (at Miami (OH): 17.5 ppg and 4.1 apg
In a MAC that was filled with elite guards at the top of the standings, Grant’s own production flew under the radar. He’s a quality point guard that can play off-ball as well and joins a Duquesne backcourt that turned over anyone. Grant is more than capable of producing at the A-10 level and head coach Keith Dambrot has a length history of his top guards having big numbers.
81. Tyreke Key – Tennessee Volunteers
2020-21 stats (at Indiana State): 17.2 ppg and 5.3 rpg
The 6’3 guard missed all of last season with an injury but when healthy was one of the best pure scorers in the Missouri Valley. Key can create his own offense, which will be good for the Vols, and even if he comes off the bench, will be one of the best 6th Men in NCAA Basketball this season.
80. Joe Toussaint – West Virginia Mountaineers
2021-22 stats (at Iowa): 4.3 ppg and 3.2 apg
Not everyone that plays for Iowa becomes an elite offensive player, as the 6’0 point guard wasn’t more than a solid defender and capable ball-handler. But he could be a great fit for Bob Huggins and West Virginia’s system. They need a point guard to replace Malik Curry as well and the senior passer should be an eff replacement, long as he isn’t asked to score.
79. Cam Spencer – Rutgers Scarlet Knights
2021-22 stats (at Loyola MD): 18.9 ppg and 4.8 rpg
The 6’4 guard had a breakout season at the Patriot League level and showed that he can he an effective three-level scorer. He joins a Rutgers squad that needs some offense after losing both Geo Baker and Ron Harper. If Spencer can be a double-digit scorer alongside Paul Mulcahy, the Knights will consider that a win.
78. Marcus Hammond – Notre Dame Fighting Irish
2021-22 stats (at Niagara): 18.1 ppg and 2.9 apg
The 6’1 guard has been a quality scorer for years at Niagara and he, not JJ Starling, may be the replacement for Blake Wesley. He’s an off-guard with a number of 20+ point games and should be another solid veteran perimeter for the Irish. And unlike the other guards on the team, Hammond doesn’t rely on three-pointers for most of his offense.
77. Toni Rocak – San Francisco Dons
2021-22 stats (at UC-San Diego): 15.2 ppg and 6.5 rpg
One of the best players in the Big West last season, the 6’8 forward gives the Dons a proven frontcourt scorer that should have plenty of success in the WCC. He’s the replacement for Yauhen Massalski inside and arguably the most important of the newcomers on the roster.
76. Frankie Collins – Arizona State Sun Devils
2021-22 stats (at Michigan): 2.8 ppg and 1.4 apg
The former top-100 prospect was a backup at Michigan but likely is starting for the Sun Devils this season. He’s viewed as a good passer and playmaker for others and will have plenty of weapons to work with. If Collins isn’t ready to have a breakout campaign, it’ll be a rough year for the Pac-12 team.
75. David Skogman – Davidson Wildcats
2021-22 stats (at Buffalo): 8.0 ppg and 6.3 rpg
Despite being the 4-5th option on offense last season, the 6’10 big man still managed to put up good numbers. He goes to a system that’s just as friendly on offense in Davidson and can utilize his underrated shooting skills as well. Look for Skogman to be an all-conference caliber player in the Atlantic 10 and play a role in keeping them in the top tier.
74. Morris Udeze – New Mexico Lobos
2021-22 stats (at Wichita State): 10.2 ppg and 6.1 rpg
The 6’8 center is a four-year transfer from Wichita State who averaged double figures in each of the last two seasons. Udeze is a steady frontcourt player that plays well on both ends and should give the Lobos a true leading big as they look to climb the Mountain West ladder.
73. Ezra Manjon – Vanderbilt Commodores
2021-22 stats (at UC-Davis): 15.0 ppg and 3.4 apg
The 5’11 guard was an All-Big West performer all three seasons at UC-Davis and was a consistent playmaker throughout. He now heads to the SEC and will be the new starting PG for the Commodores who won’t have star Scotty Pippen anymore. He won’t be as good but still a solid addition for Vandy.
72. Samuell Williamson – SMU Mustangs
2021-22 stats (at Louisville): 5.6 ppg and 3.7 rpg
The former five-star prospect was nothing more than a role player for the Cardinals but Williamson still was effective in that role, including leading the team in rebounding one year. The 6’7 forward joins a completely rebuild SMU roster and has a chance to be the focal point of their offense.
71. Matt Cross – UMass Minutemen
2021-22 stats (at Louisville): 5.8 ppg and 3.9 rpg
The former four-star prospect showed flashes at both Miami and Louisville but neither stop worked out for him for multiple reasons. UMass is his chance to prove he can be a key piece of an offense and he has the skills to flourish there. The rest of the Minutemen frontcourt is filled with bid bodies and rebounders so the offense Cross can provide will be welcomed.
70. Rocket Watts – Oakland Grizzlies
2021-22 stats (at Mississippi State): 4.4 ppg and 0.9 rpg
The former top-30 prospect never got it going at either Michigan State or Mississippi State, with injuries playing a factor this past season. Watts still can be an effective off-guard and will get the chance to at Oakland in the Horizon League, next to the nation’s second-leading passer in Jalen Moore. After seeing Marquette transfer Jamal Cain go from a role player to a star last season, the talented Watts may take the same path.
69. Nahiem Alleyne – UConn Huskies
2021-22 stats (at Virginia Tech): 9.6 ppg and 2.8 rpg
The 6’4 guard has 84 career starts with the Hokies and has a career three-point percentage of 38% in three years. He’s a “3 and D” type that the Huskies will need in its revamped backcourt. Alleyne’s production can certainly be inconsistent but he’s also capable of going for 20+ points as well.
68. Bryce Hopkins – Providence Friars
2021-22 stats (at Kentucky): 2.1 ppg and 1.4 rpg
The former top-40 prospect is another player that didn’t crack the rotation but the Wildcats but he should be viewed as a breakout candidate with the Friars and the replacement for Noah Horchler at the power forward position. Hopkins is a skilled 6’7 combo with plenty of offensive potential.
67. Grant Basile – Virginia Tech Hokies
2021-22 stats (at Wright State): 18.4 ppg and 8.5 rpg
The 6’9 big man has been one of the best post scorers in the mid-major world, including several 30+ point efforts. His offense should be able to translate to the Hokies but defensively could be another thing. But after losing star forward Keve Aluma, Basile’s scoring ability will be needed this season in the frontcourt.
66. Joe Bamisile – Oklahoma Sooners
2021-22 stats (at George Washington): 16.3 ppg and 5.0 rpg
After a limited role at Virginia Tech, the 6’4 scoring guard went down to the A-10 and led GW in scoring, including five games of at least 25 points and a career-high 30 in double-overtime in a win over Duquesne. He goes to an Oklahoma team that certainly lacked backcourt scoring last season but the Big 12 defenses will be a tough challenge this year.
65. Desmond Cambridge – Arizona State Sun Devils
2021-22 stats (at Nevada):16.2 ppg and 5.1 rpg
In four years at both Brown and Nevada, Cambridge has averaged at least 15 ppg and been one of the most consistent scorers in NCAA Basketball. He’s also a volume three-point shooter at over seven a game and will be a needed additional weapon for Collins to work with in the backcourt.
64. Jaren Holmes – Iowa State Cyclones
2021-22 stats (at St. Bonaventure): 13.5 ppg and 3.6 apg
The 6’4 guard was a steady starter for the Bonnies in the last three years and arguably was their best pure scorer on the roster. Holmes is an all-around scorer and a quality defender and will be tasked with replacing Iowa State’s leading scorer, Izaiah Brockington.
63. Jarod Lucas – Nevada Wolf Pack
2021-22 stats (at Oregon State): 13.5 ppg and 2.3 rpg
On an awful Oregon State team, Lucas was one of the lone bright spots on the team, leading them in scoring. He’s going to be the replacement for Grant Sherfield on the Wolf Pack as the lead guard and there’s a good history of proven Pac-12 players from bad teams heading down to the Mountain West and doing big things.
62. Jeremiah Williams – Iowa State Cyclones
2021-22 stats (at Temple): 9.5 ppg and 4.3 apg
Had 21 ppg scoring wing Khalif Battle not gotten hurt last year for Temple, Williams would’ve put up even better stats as the team’s point guard. The 6’5 playmaker likely won’t be as good as outgoing point guard Tyrese Hunter but if he can steady the offense and prevent the kind of droughts that were prevalent last year, the Cyclones will be in good shape.
61. Justin Powell – Washington State Cougars
2021-22 stats (at Tennessee): 3.7 ppg and 1.5 rpg
Powell didn’t do much with the Vols in what turned out to be a deep backcourt but the Auburn version of the 6’6 guard may still exist. When healthy on the court, Powell was a quality shooter, passer, and rebounder. He joins a Wazzu backcourt where he’s the only true ball-handler so he’ll have the ball in his hands to create as he did at Auburn. He’ll have to play at an all-league level for the Cougars to be competitive in the Pac-12.
60. Ricky Council IV – Arkansas Razorbacks
2021-22 stats (at Wichita State): 12.0 ppg and 5.4 rpg
The lone perimeter transfer this offseason for the Razorbacks, Council was the AAC 6th Man of the Year with the Shockers and even had a 31-point effort last season. The 6’5 guard provides needed experience and someone that can create for himself, taking pressure off of Nick Smith in the backcourt.
59. Andre Kelly – UC-Santa Barbara Gauchos
2021-22 stats (at Cal):13.4 ppg and 8.4 rpg
The 6’8 big man had his breakout season in Year 4, including four games of at least 20 points. Kelly is moving down to the Big West and a Gauchos squad who’s replacing their own four-year starter in Amadou Sow in the frontcourt. Kelly should be able to come in and be an All-Big West performer from day one and his move could be what puts UC-Santa Barara back to the NCAA Tournament.
58. Andre Curbelo – St. John’s Red Storm
2021-22 stats (at Illinois): 7.5 ppg and 3.2 apg
A player that has divided many options, Curbelo is a former top-30 point guard prospect that looked great as a freshman but health and fit derailed his sophomore season. He’s still an elite passer and capable playmaker and joins returning starter Posh Alexander to form a very interesting backcourt. If Curbelo can find a way to become a better shooter and play of the ball more, this could work out well.
57. De’Vion Harmon – Texas Tech Red Raiders
2021-22 stats (at Oregon): 10.8 ppg and 2.1 apg
The 6’3 combo guard was a double-digit scorer at both Oregon and Oklahoma and has steadily improved his three-point shooting, making 37% last season. Harmon will be tasked with running the offense for the Red Raiders and have the ball in his hands a lot. As long as he replicates his past two seasons and fits the defensive scheme, Texas Tech will be good with the senior veteran.
56. Ben Vander Plas – Virginia Cavaliers
2021-22 stats (at Ohio): 14.3 ppg and 6.8 rpg
The 6’8 versatile combo forward gives Virginia plenty of things that they lacked last year including frontcourt scoring outside of Jayden Gardner, an extra passer, and most importantly, a capable three-point shooter. Since the Cavaliers return its entire starting lineup, it’ll be interesting to see how Coach Tony Bennett uses him this season.
55. Emmanuel Akot – Western Kentucky Hilltoppers
2021-22 stats (at Boise State): 10.6 ppg and 2.8 apg
Another versatile transfer, Akot is a 6’8 guard that played some point for Boise this past season. He’s also a very capable three-point shooter and his size and athleticism will make the Hilltoppers’ defense much for formidable. And now that he’s in Conference USA, Akot’s skillset could become even more clear.
54. Sir’Jabari Rice – Texas Longhorns
2021-22 stats (at New Mexico State): 11.9 ppg and 5.1 rpg
Rice was a double-digit scorer in all three years for the Aggies and was named All-WAC each time. There’s nothing elite about this player other than him being above average in every category. Rice is a good defender and shooter and on a Texas team that has a lot of guys that needs the ball, having this 5th-year transfer around that doesn’t need the ball to have an impact is what will help the overall chemistry of the backcourt. But when Rice does get the ball, he’s been effective and consistent.
53. Tyree Appleby – Wake Forest Demon Deacons
2021-22 stats (at Florida): 10.9 ppg and 3.7 apg
The 6’1 guard has been a double-digit scorer in four years at both Cleveland State and Florida. He’s a steady ball-handler that’ll come in and take over for ACC Player of the Year Alondes Williams at Wake Forest and provides needed experience and proven power conference production.
52. D.J. Burns – NC State Wolfpack
2021-22 stats (at Winthrop): 15.0 ppg and 4.5 rpg
The 6’9 forward was the Big South Player of the Year last season, having eight games of at least 20 points. Burns doesn’t space the floor but his size should allow him to be a solid low-post scorer for the Wolfpack. NC State had no frontcourt production last season so if he can become a legit starter and give them solid defense, Burns will end up being a very good pickup.
51. Tanner Holden – Ohio State Buckeyes
2021-22 stats (at Wright State): 20.1 ppg and 7.1 rpg
One of the top scorers in the Horizon League last season, Holden is a 6’6 wing that can score from anywhere on the floor. He gives Ohio State a potential go-to option on offense and his shooting next to McNeil will be a dangerous combo for Big Ten opponents. Holden also is capable of going off in a huge way, such as his 37 points against Bryant in the play-in game of the NCAA Tournament.
50. Qudus Wahab – Georgetown Hoyas
2021-22 stats (at Maryland): 7.7 ppg and 5.6 rpg
Wahab was at Georgetown in the first couple of years, playing a key role in the team’s Big East Tournament title run in 2021. Unfortunately, neither he nor his team did well when they parted ways, with the big man having a down season with the Terrapins, while the Hoyas went winless in league play. Wahab is a bit of improvement over what Georgetown had at the five-spot before and should get back to being a key part of the offense.
49. Nelly Cummings – Pittsburgh Panthers
2021-22 stats (at Colgate): 14.7 ppg and 3.4 apg
The Panthers didn’t have a true scholarship point guard on the roster and worked to fix that this offseason with Cummings, who started 78 games in three years at Colgate and was a star in the Patriot League. The 6’0 playmaker can play on and off the ball, making him a good fit next to incoming freshman guard Dior Johnson.
48. Grant Sherfield – Oklahoma Sooners
2021-22 stats (at Nevada): 19.1 ppg and 6.4 apg
After transferring over from Witchita State, Sherfield became a star at Nevada and was one of the best pure scorers in the Mountain West. He had 25+ points on at least eight occasions and 10+ assists three times. How he fits with Coach Porter Moser’s offense at Oklahoma in the Big 12 will determine their postseason hopes but his scoring production will be needed in the backcourt.
47. Jaylan Gainey – Florida State Seminoles
2021-22 stats (at Brown): 9.3 ppg and 6.9 rpg
Coach Leonard Hamilton loves frontcourt players with size and that can defend. Few players that entered the portal fit that mold more than Gainey, who’s listed at 6’9 and 220 pounds and was the two-time Ivy League Defensive Player of the Year at Brown. He can play both frontcourt positions with the Seminoles and should fit nicely into their rotation.
46. Neal Quinn – Richmond Spiders
2021-22 stats (at Lafayette): 14.7 ppg and 7.4 rpg
After losing longtime veteran big man Grant Golden, the Spiders landed an identical frontcourt player from the Patriot League. The 7’0 center also averaged 4.0 apg and shot 40% from three-point range. His all-around play is important for a team that lost a ton of production and he gives them another proven scorer next to star forward Tyler Burton and could be an A-10 player if he replicates those efficient stats.
45. Theo Akwuba – Ole Miss Rebels
2021-22 stats (at Louisiana): 9.1 ppg and 7.9 rpg
The Rebels brought in three mid-major frontcourt transfers and the one most likely to make an impact is Akwuba, a 6’11 center that was the former Sun Belt Defensive Player of the Year at Louisiana. He’s a quality shot-blocker and has plenty of size for the SEC level. He’ll have plenty of quality bigs to deal with in league play and is the lone center on the roster that can match up with them.
44. Dylan Penn – Vermont Catamounts
2021-22 stats (at Bellarmine): 16.6 ppg and 5.0 apg
The 6’3 guard made Bellarmine’s transition to the D-I level very easy, including being the second-best player in the Atlantic Sun last season. Penn can do just about everything except make three-pointers at a high clip but his ability to scorer doesn’t rely on that. He had 38 points in a game against Central Arkansas and will be Vermont’s best player and possibly the America East’s best as well.
43. Warren Washington – Arizona State Sun Devils
2021-22 stats (at Nevada): 10.5 ppg and 6.6 rpg
The 7’0 center has scored double figures in each of the last two years for the Wolf Pack at around 60% shooting from the field. He’s an effective post scorer and provides much-needed balance to the Sun Devils’ frontcourt, which has had issues in that department recently.
42. KC Ndefo – Seton Hall Pirates
2021-22 stats (at Saint Peter’s): 10.5 ppg and 6.1 rpg
Ndefo was an impact player before the Peacocks’ historic Elite 8 run. The 6’7 big man was the MAAC Defensive Player of the Year (3 times) and is a bouncy forward that plays and defends bigger than his size. He sticks with head coach Shaheen Halloway to the Big East level and will anchor what should be a very good defense based on the overall roster makeup. And he’s an underrated offensive player as well so it won’t be a shock if he is still a 10+ scorer this season.
41. Eric Gaines – UAB Blazers
2021-22 stats (at LSU): 9.0 ppg and 2.9 apg
Gaines may have been a bit inefficient off the bench for LSU but he certainly proved that he’s a power conference performer. But now he joins a UAB roster that’s loaded with talent and next to CUSA Player of the Year Jelly Walker, very well could end up as the next best player. Gaines can play on and off the ball and is a capable scorer and an impressive athlete. He’ll certainly have some nice stats at this level.
40. Rudi Williams – BYU Cougars
2021-22 stats (at Coastal Carolina): 14.7 ppg and 3.2 apg
After leaving Kansas State, the 6’1 guard went to the Sun Belt Conference and became an incredibly efficient player, shooting 51% from the field and 45% from three-point range. Williams will take the place of star guard Alex Barcello in the backcourt for the Cougars in the WCC. It’s a team that doesn’t have many shot-creators so Williams will likely have to pull double duty as both a scorer and passer.
39. Jake Stephens – Chattanooga Mocs
2021-22 stats (at VMI): 19.6 ppg and 9.0 rpg
One of the most efficient and offensively gifted big men in the country, Stephens put up gaudy numbers on nearly a nightly basis, including 39 points on 7/8 shooting from deep in a game versus Samford. The 6’10 center shot 55% from the field and more impressive, 49% from three-point range on five attempts a game. Stephens followed his head coach over to fellow SoCon program Chattanooga, who has completely rebuilt itself. But there’s a good chance that the program could end up having back-to-back SoCon Player of the Year winners.
38. Jalen Bridges – Baylor Bears
2021-22 stats (at West Virginia): 8.4 ppg and 4.8 rpg
The 6’7 combo forward was highly sought after this offseason, with Baylor winning out. He’s not the same kind of shooter as outgoing forward Matthew Mayer but Bridges is highly athletic and fits perfectly with the team’s defensive system. He doesn’t even have to be a great scorer for them due to the guard talent but Bridges still has shown flashes of being a 15+ point performer at times and with better teammates should have his own good outings.
37. Xavier Pinson – New Mexico State Aggies
2021-22 stats (at LSU): 9.8 ppg and 4.8 apg
Pinson has been a double-digit scorer and starter at both Missouri and LSU in the past few years. So imagine the kind of impact he’ll have as he heads down to the WAC and plays for one of the best mid-major programs in NCAA Basketball. With Teddy Allen and many others gone, the offense will be all Pinson. He’s arguably the best player in the conference on paper and should be a favorite to win WAC Player of the Year and lead the Aggies to another NCAA Tournament appearance.
36. Landers Nolley – Cincinnati Bearcats
2021-22 stats (at Memphis): 9.8 ppg and 2.8 apg
The former top-50 prospect looked great at Virginia Tech but the move to Memphis didn’t work out too well. Still, Nolley has always been a quality offensive player and can be a go-to option. He stays in the AAC for a Cincinnati squad that needs more scoring and the odds are good that Nolley will get back to the Hokie version, where he was an all-conference caliber of player.
35. Devin Carter – Providence Friars
2021-22 stats (at South Carolina): 9.0 ppg and 3.8 rpg
The 6’3 guard was an All-SEC freshman last season, averaging nearly 20 ppg per 40 minutes off the bench. He was gonna be a national breakout candidate to watch no matter where he was at and Providence will be the one that benefits from his arrival. Carter has all the potential to become an all-league player and in games where he was given 25+ minutes, he was mostly a 15+ point scorer. After losing Aljami Durham this offseason, Carter very well could be his replacement.
34. Tre Mitchell – West Virginia Mountaineers
2021-22 stats (at Texas): 8.7 ppg and 4.0 rpg
In two years at UMass, the 6’9 big man averaged around 18.0 ppg and 7.0 rpg. But at Texas, he struggled to get a role in the rotation and fit in their system. An argument can be made that Mitchell isn’t good enough for the Big 12. Another argument is that everyone struggled last year outside of Timmy Allen. We’ll see who’s right when he suits up for the Mountaineers, as he’ll be the focal point of the frontcourt and possibly the offense overall.
33. Courtney Ramey – Arizona Wildcats
2021-22 stats (at Texas): 9.4 ppg and 3.5 rpg
Ramey is the definition of “steady” as an NCAA Basketball player. He has 106 starts in four years at Texas, with a career average of exactly 10.0 ppg. The 6’3 guard is a quality defender and capable ball-handler and can play on and off the ball. While Ramey won’t be relied upon to be the top option on offense, he joins an Arizona roster that now has good depth of role players. Ramey can play multiple positions in that system and defend anyone as well, making him a versatile asset.
32. Will Richard – Florida Gators
2021-22 stats (at Belmont): 12.1 ppg and 6.0 rpg
The 6’5 guard could be the next hidden gem that was found in the portal. As a freshman, Richard proved to be just as good as the stars at Belmont and had multiple 20+ point efforts. He’s a national breakout player to watch and can play anywhere from 2-4 in the lineup. Richard’s offensive potential can be unlocked under new head coach Todd Golden this season.
31. Souley Boum – Xavier Musketeers
2021-22 stats (at UTEP): 19.8 ppg and 4.5 rpg
Between his days at San Francisco and UTEP, Boum has shown himself to be an explosive offensive weapon. He’s also fairly consistent and rarely has an off game on the court. Although he’s more of a scoring guard, Boum is capable of running an offense and being a facilitator. He’ll be tasked to do that at Xavier this season but at least he has plenty of scorers to pass the ball to.
30. Antonio Reeves – Kentucky Wildcats
2021-22 stats (at Illinois State): 20.1 ppg and 3.5 rpg
The 6’4 guard developed over time into a fantastic scorer in the Missouri Valley Conference, including a couple of 30+ point games. Reeves also shot nearly 40% from three-point range and while being high volume, still was efficient overall for the Redbirds. Kentucky won’t need him to lead the team, just to be a solid 8-12 ppg scorer and capable three-point shooter either as the 6th Man or starting on the wings. Not all transfers work out for the Wildcats but Reeves’ skillset should make for a solid transition.
29. David Jones – St. John’s Red Storm
2021-22 stats (at DePaul): 14.5 ppg and 7.4 rpg
While Curbelo gets most of the attention as the star offseason pickup for the Red Storm, they also got a Big East player to join them in Jones, a 6’6 combo forward that had a breakout campaign last season at DePaul. He had seven games of 20+ points, as well as pulling off a triple-double against Georgetown. Jones is a quality scorer and playmaker and is the closest thing the team was gonna get as a replacement for star forward Julian Champagnie this offseason. If St. John’s makes a postseason tournament, it’ll likely be because Jones led the way.
28. Keion Brooks – Washington Huskies
2021-22 stats (at Kentucky): 10.8 ppg and 4.4 rpg
Brooks was a double-digit scoring starter in the past two years at Kentucky and while he didn’t have any huge games, was perfectly fine for them overall. He joins a Washington team that’s up for grabs when it comes to who’ll be the scoring leaders. Brooks has a chance to be one of the top players in the Pac-12 and keep the Huskies competitive in league play.
27. Brandon Murray – Georgetown Hoyas
2021-22 stats (at LSU): 10.0 ppg and 3.0 rpg
Not many paid attention to the LSU players due to what was going on with the head coach last season. But Murray was a very good two-way player and starter as a freshman, including seven games of at least 14 points. On a rebuilt Georgetown roster that has plenty of newcomers, look for Murray to stand out as one of the best players overall, with his role showing that.
26. Jahmir Young – Maryland Terrapins
2021-22 stats (at Charlotte): 19.6 ppg and 5.9 rpg
The former CUSA Rookie of the Year has only gotten better as time has passed on, including now as one of the best overall players in the league. And Young also is one of the most consistent as well, scoring in double figures in every game this past season. That’s different than the last mid-major transfer the Terrapins had in Fatts Russell, who was high volume but inefficient at times. Young is likely the starting point guard at Maryland and should be an upgrade over Fatts.
25. Matthew Mayer – Illinois Fighting Illini
2021-22 stats (at Baylor): 9.8 ppg and 5.0 rpg
Mayer was part of the 2021 national title sqaud and is known as one of the better stretch forwards in NCAA Basketball. He had a down year at Baylor last season but now joins an Illinois team where he’ll certainly have a larger role. The 6’9 forward is a good defender and shooter and could easily flourish under head coach Brad Underwood.
24. Michael Jones – Stanford Cardinal
2021-22 stats (at Davidson): 11.8 ppg and 3.6 rpg
Due to their lofty academic standards, Stanford has never gotten an incoming transfer. That changed with former Davidson guard Michael Jones, who was one of the best pure shooters from the transfer portal this offseason Jones shot 42% from deep last season, including an 8/9 shooting performance in his 29-point effort against Richmond. The Cardinal weren’t strong in that area last season so Jones is a welcomed addition, especially considering how hard it is to get someone to the school.
23. Norchad Omier – Miami Hurricanes
2021-22 stats (at Arkansas State): 17.9 ppg and 12.2 rpg
Omier is the reigning Sun Belt Player of the Year and was one of the top rebounders in NCAA Basketball last season, including a program-record 26 boards in one game. He also had a few 30+ point games as well so is a capable scorer inside as well. The 6’7 forward now is the focal point of the Hurricanes’ frontcourt and his lack of size may be an issue as he moves up to the ACC level. But as long as Omier keeps his energy and physicality, he’s sure to still be an impactful player for them.
22. Jaelin Llewellyn – Michigan Wolverines
2021-22 stats (at Princeton): 15.7 ppg and 2.5 rpg
It’s another Ivy League transfer for the Wolverines that’ll be running their offense and this time it’s a quality scorer in the 6’2 Llewellyn. He had eight games of at least 20 points last season, including 29 versus Harvard. The senior playmaker also shot 39% from deep and is comfortable creating his own shot. Llewellyn isn’t much of a passer though so him being the point guard will be a transition for him to make but next to star center Hunter Dickinson, the Princeton transfer will likely be the No. 2 option on offense.
21. Jacob Grandison – Duke Blue Devils
2021-22 stats (at Illinois): 9.6 ppg and 3.8 rpg
The 6’6 guard is in his 6th year after spending time at both Holy Cross and Illinois and became a quality three-point shooter in the last two years, making over 41%. Grandison isn’t coming to Duke to be a star but rather as an effective role player that can play and guard multiple positions. His shooting ability addresses a need on the roster and with Dariq Whitehead potentially out to start the season, Grandison could very well start for the Blue Devils as well. His presence may not look like much at times on paper but he could play a pivotal role in them making another Final Four run.
20. Keyontae Johnson – Kansas State Wildcats
2019-20 stats (at Florida): 14.0 ppg and 7.1 rpg
The story of Johnson is well known at this point, as his career looked like it was over after developing a heart condition after collapsing on the court. It’s been nearly two years since he’s been on the court but Kansas State has cleared him to play and if he looks like his normal self, could be an All-Big 12 player this season. Johnson is an offensive threat as a combo forward and is a former SEC Preseason Player of the Year so the talent has never been a question.
19. Manny Bates – Butler Bulldogs
2020-21 stats (at NC State): 9.8 ppg and 5.9 rpg
Bates missed all of last season with a shoulder injury and if you didn’t know how much of a defensive impact he had on the court, the Wolfpack became one of the worst defensive teams in NCAA Basketball when he was out. Butler and new head coach Thad Matta are hoping Bates anchors their defense this season and if fully healthy, should do just that.
18. Darrion Trammell – San Deigo State Aztecs
2021-22 stats (at Seattle U): 17.3 ppg and 5.0 apg
San Diego State didn’t have much offense last season outside of Matt Bradley and the point guard play was spotty offensively. Enters Trammell, who had a case of being WAC Player of the Year last season but settled for All-WAC Defense. He’s had multiple 30-point games and is a solid passer as well. The 5’11 guard fits the Aztecs very well and if the offense gets better, the team should be a threat to make a run in the Big Dance.
17. Dawson Garcia – Minnesota Golden Gophers
2021-22 stats (at North Carolina): 9.0 ppg and 5.5 rpg
Garcia was one of the top transfers a year ago after leaving Marquette for UNC. But for one reason or another, the 6’11 forward didn’t fit there. Still, he produced numbers that most frontcourt players would take and now he returns home to a Gopher team that doesn’t have much outside of Jamison Battle. Garcia won’t have to share the frontcourt this time around and could put up some huge numbers this season and put his name among the top bigs in the Big Ten.
16. Isiaih Mosley – Missouri Tigers
2021-22 stats (at Missouri State): 20.4 ppg and 6.2 rpg
One of the best pure scorers in NCAA Basketball, Mosley had five games of at least 30 points last season, with two of them going for 40+. He also pulled off the rare 50-40-90 shooting splits, which is even more impressive considering he was taking around 17 shots a game. He joins several other mid-major transfers on a rebuilding Missouri roster but on paper, it’s clear that Mosley will be the star of the team and a force in the SEC.
15. K.J. Williams – LSU Tigers
2021-22 stats (at Murray State): 18.0 ppg and 8.4 rpg
The 6’10 forward was the OVC Player of the Year last season and is an elite offensive player, including four games of at least 30 points at Murray State. Williams opted to follow his head coach (Matt McMahon) to the SEC and is set to be the focal point of LSU. If he can transition to the power conference level and still remain such a quality post scorer with the abilty to also stretch the floor, the Tigers will outdo all preseason expectations.
14. Kyle Lofton – Florida Gators
2021-22 stats (at St. Bonaventure): 12.8 ppg and 5.9 apg
The 6’3 point guard is one of the most experienced players in the country with 116 starts in four seasons. Lofton also is the iron man of NCAA Basketball with an average of over 38 mpg and easily the most games playing all 40 minutes. He’s also a double-digit scorer and quality passer and is an upgrade over last year’s starter, Tyree Appleby. New head coach Todd Golden has had great success with playmaking guards in the past and he and Lofton will be a nice match in the SEC this season.
13. Trevon Brazile – Arkansas Razorbacks
2021-22 stats (at Missouri): 6.6 ppg and 5.1 rpg
The 6’9 forward had a good freshman season at Missouri but is a legit NBA prospect due to his extreme athleticism and defensive skillset. Brazile averaged over two shots per game as a freshman and now plays for head coach Eric Musselman and a roster filled with talent all over. It’s a situation where Brazile can be a national breakout player and make it that Nick Smith isn’t the only future first-round draft pick on the Arkansas roster.
12. Baylor Scheierman – Creighton Bluejays
2021-22 stats (at South Dakota State): 16.2 ppg and 7.8 rpg
Scheierman was the Summit League Player of the Year last season at South Dakota, including 11 games of at least 20 points, while shooting over 45% from three-point range. It’s true that the Summit League inflates players’ numbers since most teams don’t play much defense but Creighton doesn’t need him to be a 15 and 8 performer this season. They’ll just need Scheierman to be a wing that spaces the floor and is a double-digit that rounds out the starting lineup, which features a trio of talented sophomores. His defense will also be a topic, as it could be a potential weakness as well.
11. Osun Osunniyi – Iowa State Cyclones
2021-22 stats (at St. Bonaventure): 11.3 ppg and 7.5 rpg
The 6’10 center has 93 starts in a four-year period, in which he was on the All-Atlantic 10 Defensive team, while winning the top individual award twice with the Bonnies. Osunniyi is one of the best individual defenders in NCAA Basketball, accumulating over 300 blocks and also can be a dominant rebounder. He joins an Iowa State squad that was elite defensively last season and now has the big man to make them just as imposing.
10. Tyrese Hunter – Texas Longhorns
2021-22 stats (at Iowa State): 11.0 ppg, 3.5 rpg, 4.9 apg
Hunter was one of the best freshmen in the country last season, playing a big role in the Cyclones winning 20 more games compared to the year before and making the Sweet 16 in the NCAA Tournament. The Big 12 Rookie of the Year had multiple 20+ point games and 10+ assist games as well, including a season-high 23 points in the win over LSU in the NCAA Tournament. Hunter is a quality defender as well and racked up a couple of steals a game.
Hunter remains in the Big 12 with the Longhorns and forms an intriguing backcourt with Marcus Carr. The sophomore plays with the ball and isn’t the greatest shooter so how the fit works out will determine how good the team is but if a breakout campaign happens and Hunter takes over as the lead guard, that may be the best thing for the team.
9. Malachi Smith – Gonzaga Bulldogs
2021-22 stats (at Chattanooga): 19.9 ppg, 6.7 rpg, 3.0 apg
The 6’4 guard was the SoCon Player of the Year last season, leading the Mocs to the NCAA Tournament. Smith had nine games of at least 25 points, including a career-high 36 points against Murray State. He’s also a good rebounder and a capable facilitator as well. The senior guard can play multiple positions on the court, thanks in part to his 41% three-point shooting ability so he can play off the ball.
At Gonzaga, Smith can play at the three-spot next to Rasir Bolton and Nolan Hickman or could become the team’s next starting point guard if Hickman isn’t ready. The versatiliy the transfer offers allows the Bulldogs to use a number of potential lineups and Smith can play any kind of role without having to have high usage. And if it works out, he could be going to a Final Four this season.
8. Mark Sears – Alabama Crimson Tide
2021-22 stats (at Ohio): 19.6 ppg, 6.0 rpg, 4.1 apg
After playing behind NBA Draft pick Jason Preston, Sears became a breakout star of his own last season in the MAC. He’s had 25+ points at least six times and was on triple-double watch on several occasions. The 6’1 guard also was fairly efficent, making 41% from three-point range.
Sears joins an Alabama roster that has five-star freshman Jaden Bradley, as well as returning guard Jahvon Quinerly. However, Quinerly is injured and not set to return until SEC play, which means the former Bobcat is likely to have a big role. Sears’ ability to play on and off the ball and how friendly the Tide’s offense normally is to perimeter players sets up the transfer to have a sizeable impact this season.
7. Tristen Newton – UConn Huskies
2021-22 stats (at East Carolina): 17.7 ppg, 4.8 rpg, 5.0 apg
The senior guard had a breakout season for the Pirates, including a couple of 30+ point games and 10 times of at least 10 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Newton had the entire offense to himself last season and still was mostly efficent and now joins a much better roster in the Huskies in the Big East.
With RJ Cole gone, Newton will step in and be the next starting point guard. Adama Sanogo is as good a security blanket as possible and there are a bunch of other perimeter transfers on the roster as well. In order for UConn to reach its potential, it’ll have to be Newton that leads the way.
6. Terrence Shannon – Illinois Fighting Illini
2021-22 stats (at Texas Tech): 10.4 ppg, 2.6 rpg, 2.0 apg
Shannon is one of the best defenders in NCAA Basketball and is a good three-point shooter as well. The 6’6 guard/wing dealt with injuries with the Red Raiders and didn’t have a consistently large role, so he entered the portal and joined the Illini who can offer Shannon the potential of being a focal point in the offense.
It’s weird to look at a rising senior as a “breakout candidate” but Shannon has the potential to explode as a leading player for Illinois. His defense and versatility will be a factor in his impact on the team and if he becomes a consistent 15+ ppg contributor, the Illini will be a contender in the Big Ten.
5. Kevin McCullar – Kansas Jayhawks
2021-22 stats (at Texas Tech): 10.1 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 3.1 apg
The 6’6 guard is another elite defender and now ex-Red Raider is an aggressive driver to the basket and capable ball-handler as well. He can play and guard positions 1-4 and with a more consistent jumper can become a legit NBA prospect after this season.
McCullar joins a Kansas roster that already has a quality perimeter defender in Dajuan Harris. Those two together will be a nightmare for opposing teams in league play. And with Remy Martin now gone, the former Texas Tech guard can have more of a role on offense as well. Expect the Jayhawks to have him play everywhere on the court where he’s needed and turn the team into a juggernaut defensive unit.
4. Johni Broome – Auburn Tigers
2021-22 stats (at Morehead State): 16.8 ppg, 10.5 rpg, 3.9 bpg
If Broome were in any other mid-major conference, he would’ve been won their respective Player of the Year award. Instead, he was the Ohio Valley Conference Defensive Player of the Year after averaging 3.9 blocks per game, good for 3rd in all of NCAA Basketball last season. The 6’10 center had 12 blocks in a single game and also was in double figures in 33 of 34 matchups as well.
Broome is the perfect replacement for Walker Kessler, who led the country in blocks last season for Auburn. His transition to the SEC should be fine since he has the size and physical measurements and is an underrated offensive player as well. If Broome can be an impactful defender, the Tigers will remain ranked and in the top-tier of the SEC.
3. Pete Nance – North Carolina Tar Heels
2021-22 stats (at Northwestern): 14.6 ppg, 6.5 rpg, 2.7 apg
The 6’10 forward was quietly one of the best frontcourt players in the Big Ten last season after his breakout campaign. Nance also shot 45% from three-point range and is a versatile offensive player. He’s a solid defender as well and a capable passer from the frontcourt.
Nance will not only be the replacement for Brady Manek on the power forward postion, but his skillset makes him arguably an upgrade. Plus, the Northwestern transfer can play at the five-spot as well to allow for various lineups. The Tar Heels were already set after four starters elected to come back but the late addition of Nance may push them to the No. 1 preseason spot.
2. Nijel Pack – Miami Hurricanes
2021-22 stats (at Kansas State): 17.4 ppg, 3.8 rpg, 2.2 apg
The Big 12 has plenty of quality defensive-based programs in its confernence. And the evidence is that almost every lead guard for each team has inefficient shooting numbers. But the one exception is Pack, a 6’0 combo guard that led the Wildcats in scoring while shooting 46% from the field and a whopping 44% from three-point range on over seven attempts. Pack was in double figures in all but one game and had a trio of 30-point efforts as well, includuing 35 points versus Kansas.
Pack joins the Hurricanes and returning scoring guard Isaiah Wong, making them one of the best backcourts in NCAA Basketball. Both can create their own offense and score efficiently but the pressure will be on Pack to be the distirubutor of the two this season. His passing numbers will havve to improve while still scoring at a high level to replace both Charlie Moore and Kameron McGusty in the backcourt. Pack has ACC Player of the Year potential but the fit with Wong will have to be perfect to maximize all involved.
1. Kendric Davis – Memphis Tigers
2021-22 stats (SMU Mustangs): 19.4 ppg, 3.8 rpg, 4.4 apg
After leaving TCU for the Mustangs, Davis elevated into a national star and the recent AAC Player of the Year. The 5’11 point guard has five games of 30+ points in the past couple of years and as a junior, posted a 14-point and 14-assist game against Cincinnati. Davis has shown to be a quality passer and scorer for SMU and is a proven product as well.
Memphis is a team that has been in the NCAA Tournament mix, all while having suspect point guard play. Alex Lomax has been the recent starter for the program and simply, Davis will be a big upgrade. It’s a team that’s normally elite defensively but has a very inconsistent offense. Adding one of the best point guards in the country should solve that problem and make them a true threat to go deep in March.