NCAA Basketball: Ranking Top 100 transfers entering 2025-26 season

An in-depth look, including scouting analysis, into the top transfers in college hoops
Arkansas vs St. John's
Arkansas vs St. John's | Mitchell Layton/GettyImages
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80. Melvin Council Jr., Kansas

While Kansas may not have reeled in any big-time names in the transfer portal this offseason, that doesn't mean they didn’t strike gold. In comes St. Bonaventure transfer Melvin Council Jr., a true combo guard who was among the top players in the A10 last season after averaging 14.6 PPG and 5.4 RPG.

The 6-foot-4 guard has climbed up the ranks through his career, starting in the JUCO ranks before stops at Wagner and then St. Bonaventure. He brings a plentiful skillset to the table after leading the A10 in steals last season (72) while dishing 4.1 APG, committing less than two turnovers per game.

These are the types of stats that can translate over in the Big 12, both on and off the ball. You get scoring. You get playmaking. And most importantly, you get a veteran guard willing to defend. This is a strong addition for the Jayhawks in 2025-26.

79. Dug McDaniel, Memphis

It’s been quite the journey for Dug McDaniel, who spent two seasons at Michigan before spending his junior season at Kansas State. After an outstanding sophomore season with the Wolverines, McDaniel took a bit of a step back with the Wildcats last season, seeing his scoring averages and efficiency numbers dip significantly.

Despite this, it wasn’t like all was lost. He still averaged nearly five assists per game, meaning there’s optimism that the 5-foot-11, speedy-quick guard can find his scoring groove again -- this time at Memphis. 

The Tigers don’t return a single minute from last year’s roster. Their backcourt took a hit when PJ Haggerty opted to transfer to Kansas State, meaning all eyes will be on McDaniel to lead the Tigers in the backcourt in 2025-26.

78. Jeremiah Wilkinson, Georiga

Just a freshman last season, the California transfer Jeremiah Wilkinson delivered all the goods, averaging 15.1 PPG for the Bars last season. Despite only starting 14 games, he was second in team scoring behind Andrej Stojakovic, who transferred to Illinois.

The reigning ACC Sixth Man of the Year -- who also earned a spot on the ACC All-Rookie Team -- oozes with upside, especially from behind the arc. While his three-point numbers (32.1%) don’t indicate he’s elite by any means, it’s necessary to take volume into account. 

He averaged nearly six three-point attempts per game, meaning it’s only a matter of time before the combo guard can continue to hone in on his efficiency. Mike White and the Georgia Bulldogs struck gold here.

77. Jayden Pierre, TCU

TCU struggled immensely on the offensive side of the floor last season. However, the hope is that the addition of Providence transfer Jayden Pierre can provide much-needed scoring pop for the Horned Frogs entering the 2025-26 season.

Pierre demonstrated steady improvement through his three seasons at Providence, averaging 12.3 PPG, 2.8 RPG and 3.2 APG for the Friars last season. Pierre isn’t afraid to let loose from deep and is a career 36.4% shooter from three. Expect Pierre to make an immediate impact in the backcourt for TCU next season.