NCAA Basketball: Analyzing teams in play for Memphis transfer Chandler Lawson

Chandler Lawson is a former top-100 prospect in the 2019 NCAA Basketball recruiting class. He’s a 6’8 combo forward that started out at Oregon, playing two years and averaging around 4.5 ppg and 3.5 rpg in 20 starts. He, along with his brother Johnathan Lawson, transferred over to Memphis where after limited minutes as a junior, Chandler has his best year to date.

This past season, Lawson averaged 5.0 ppg and 4.5 rpg in 20 mpg, starting 24 of 35 games. His top performances include 11 points and five rebounds against South Florida, along with 12 points and nine boards versus SMU. Now, just like his brother a month ago, Chandler Lawson will be entering the transfer portal for his final year of eligibility.

There are reportedly eight teams that have reached out to Lawson, with the Michigan Wolverines also reaching out. Does any of them make sense for the forward? Here’s a closer look at each option.

Arkansas Razorbacks

Just a couple of weeks ago, Arkansas was after a couple of power forwards in five-star prospect Ron Holland and North Dakota State transfer, Grant Nelson. Holland has since committed to the G League and if the reports are true, Nelson will be heading over to Alabama. The team does have Trevon Brazile back but he’s coming off a season-ending injury, while Jalen Graham was out of the rotation last season. Lawson would serve as another depth piece capable of providing minutes for one year.

BYU Cougars

The Cougars are moving from the WCC to the Big 12 and are looking to be as athletic as possible against the new talent. They’ve upgraded the frontcourt with Charlotte transfer Aly Khalifa and guard transfers, Dawson Baker and Ques Glover. But the four-spot is still a question, as returning starter Fousseyni Traore may be better suited as a five and they haven’t replaced Gideon George yet. Lawson would have a chance to start at this option and be a potential focal point.