9. Rylan Griffen – Kansas
A Dallas native and talented guard, Griffen was a Top 50 prospect out of the Class of 2022 who found his home in Tuscaloosa under Nate Oats. He was a valuable bench weapon as a freshman during a great season for the Crimson Tide and earning a starting role as a sophomore, taking that step forward in what would become a Final Four campaign for Alabama. Despite that, he opted to transfer and found a new home out at Kansas.
Things didn’t quite progress as expected for Griffen and the Jayhawks in a season where he significantly struggled. His numbers took a step back, averaging just 6.3 points and 2.1 rebounds after nearly doubling that production the year prior with the Crimson Tide. Griffen’s shooting numbers were on a harsh decline and he’s hoping a new destination will prove useful. The highly touted recruit who shot 39% for a Final Four team can definitely bring something as a senior to his next team.
8. James Scott – Louisville
A 6-11 forward with untapped potential, Scott came out of Fayetteville, North Carolina to play for Pat Kelsey down at the College of Charleston. During another historic season for the Cougars, Scott put up pretty solid production as a true freshman as a reserve and followed his head coach to Louisville this past offseason after earning All-Freshman honors in the CAA.
Scott was a full-time starter for Louisville’s revival this season and had a major role in that frontcourt. He averaged 7.1 points and 6.1 rebounds per game with decent metrics on both sides of the ball. Most importantly, Scott was a guarantee around the basket, making an ACC-leading 78% of his 2-point field goal attempts. He didn’t have quite the growth as some in Louisville may have expected but he’ll be a dangerous weapon in the paint for his next college.
7. Derrion Reid – Alabama
Native to Groveton, Georgia, Reid stood out at the high school level and did a prep year out in California which helped him gain national attention. He was considered a Top 15 recruit in last year’s recruiting class and was another major name brought in by Nate Oats and Alabama. In what would become another prosperous season for the Crimson Tide, Reid showed his potential but still has plenty to unlock next season.
An injury marred his season and forced him to miss a dozen games, but Reid still put up 6.0 points and 2.8 rebounds per game largely as an option off the bench. His best production came early in the season before his injury, including a few starts and some notable performances in nonconference play. His next landing spot will hope to get even more production from this crafty forward with significant potential.