The top 5 teams that makes most sense for former Villanova big man Duke Brennan

There are a number of quality former college basketball seniors who are close to getting a 5th year, thanks to courts throughout the country arguing against the NCAA. Among players using this avenue is Duke Brennan, a 6’10 forward with 98 career starts in four seasons.

He was a highly impactful transfer at Villanova last season, averaging 12.4 ppg and 10.3 rpg, good for 11th in the country. Brennan shot 66% from the field and produced 14 double-doubles, including 20 points and 13 rebounds against Xavier in Big East play.

In the past week, several programs have reportedly been in the mix to land Brennan. But which of them stands out the most in terms of the ability to provide a role and win next season? Here’s a ranking of the five best options on paper.

1. North Carolina Tar Heels

New coach Michael Malone has one of the younger rosters in the ACC right now, with Utah transfer Terrence Brown and returning forward Jarin Stevenson being the lone veterans. At the center position, the Heels landed two notable international players in Sayon Keita and Alex Samodurov, two talented yet unproven players at this level. Brennan would be a great big-man addition for Malone and UNC, giving them the option to play some big lineups with Stevenson at the three-spot if they wanted to.

2. Oregon Ducks

The Ducks have already landed a 5th-year senior in the past week, grabbing former Arkansas forward Malique Ewin. But they’re still thin at center, having lost Nathan Bittle this offseason. Brennan would be a great option for them, and he and Ewin would be one of the better frontcourt duos in the Big Ten.

3. Oklahoma Sooners

Oklahoma is another team with a clear need at center. Their current projected start at the five-spot is Oregon State transfer Yaak Yaak. Brennan would be a massive upgrade and give the Sooners a much-needed, proven quality big man who can hold his own in the SEC. 

4. Villanova Wildcats

The option to return Villanova may not be clear, as they brought in Luigo Suigo from overseas. The 7’3 center was a clear NBA Draft candidate but opted to join the Wildcats as a likely starter. Still, Brennan is a proven player familiar with the system, and they could always go with a double-big lineup to keep everyone happy. 

5. Georgetown Hoyas

Between Vincent Iwuchukwu and Julius Halaifonua, the Hoyas got good production at the five-spot. But it still wasn’t enough to make them a competitive Big East team. Right now, they don’t have a ton of frontcourt depth anyway, so bringing in Brennan would be huge for them. He’d arguably be their best player and focal point of the team. But if he’s willing to stay in the conference, would he really pick Georgetown over Villanova? 

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