As the 2024-25 college basketball season approaches, a wave of exciting transfers is set to make an impact on their new teams. These players bring a mix of experience, talent, and leadership that could shape the season for their respective programs. Here are some of the most intriguing transfers to watch, each poised to leave a mark on the court.
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1. Great Osobor, Washington
One of the most sought-after transfers this offseason, Great Osobor is heading to Washington for his fourth year of college basketball. The 6-foot-8 forward had a standout season at Utah State, averaging 17.7 points and 9 rebounds per game. His versatility and scoring ability will be crucial for the Huskies as they aim for their first NCAA tournament appearance since 2019. Osobor’s presence in the frontcourt provides Washington with the talent and experience needed to compete in a tough conference.
2. Kam Jones, Marquette
Kam Jones is returning to Marquette for his senior season after a breakout performance last year. The 6-foot-5 guard averaged 17.2 points per game and shot 40.6% from three-point range, proving himself as a key contributor for Shaka Smart’s squad. With Marquette coming off one of its best tournament runs in recent history, Jones will be expected to take on an even larger role as a leader on the court. His sharpshooting and playmaking skills will be central to the Golden Eagles’ success.
3. Hunter Sallis, Wake Forest
After two underwhelming seasons at Gonzaga, Hunter Sallis found his stride last year, averaging 18 points per game and shooting 40.5% from beyond the arc at Wake Forest. The 6-foot-5 guard’s improved shooting and overall play have made him a key player for the Demon Deacons, who are looking to return to the NCAA tournament for the first time since 2017. Sallis’ ability to stretch the floor and score efficiently will be vital to Wake Forest’s postseason ambitions.
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4. Tucker DeVries, West Virginia
Tucker DeVries followed his father, Darian DeVries, to West Virginia after Darian accepted the Mountaineers’ head coach position. Tucker was a consistent scorer at Drake, averaging 21.6 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game last season. The 6-foot-7 guard brings versatility and scoring punch to a West Virginia team that struggled last season, failing to reach 10 wins for the first time in over two decades. DeVries’ ability to impact games on multiple levels will be crucial for the Mountaineers’ rebuild.
5. Yaxel Lendeborg, UAB
Yaxel Lendeborg is gearing up for his second season with UAB after leading the Blazers in scoring (13.8 points) and rebounds (10.6) last year. The 6-foot-9 forward’s all-around game makes him one of the most versatile players in Conference USA. With UAB looking to make back-to-back NCAA tournament appearances for the first time since 2004-2006, Lendeborg will be the focal point of the Blazers’ offense, carrying significant responsibilities on both ends of the floor.
6. Ryan Nembhard, Gonzaga
Ryan Nembhard took over as the floor general for Gonzaga last season, averaging 6.9 assists per game, which ranked him seventh in Division I. The 6-foot guard will once again lead the Bulldogs as they aim for their 26th consecutive tournament appearance. Nembhard’s leadership and court vision are invaluable assets for a Gonzaga team that has its sights set on avenging last year’s Sweet 16 loss.
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7. Payton Sandfort, Iowa
Payton Sandfort emerged as a standout in his first full season as a starter for Iowa, averaging 16.4 points and 6.6 rebounds. The 6-foot-7 forward’s versatility and scoring ability will be central to the Hawkeyes’ efforts to return to the NCAA tournament after missing out last season. Sandfort’s growth as a player will be a storyline to watch as he continues to develop into one of the Big Ten’s top forwards.
8. Wade Taylor IV, Texas A&M
Wade Taylor IV has been a key factor in Texas A&M’s resurgence, averaging 16.3 points in 2022-23 and 19.1 points last season. The 6-foot guard’s dynamic scoring ability and leadership have helped guide the Aggies to two consecutive tournament appearances. As Taylor enters his senior year, expectations are high for him to continue his stellar play and push Texas A&M deeper into postseason contention.
9. Zakai Zeigler, Tennessee
Zakai Zeigler was a crucial piece in Tennessee’s deep tournament run last season. With the departure of Dalton Knecht to the NBA, the 5-foot-9 guard is set to take on an even larger role in Rick Barnes’ offense. Zeigler’s quickness, playmaking, and scoring prowess will be key to the Volunteers’ hopes of another strong season.
10. Graham Ike, Gonzaga
Graham Ike made an immediate impact at Gonzaga after transferring from Wyoming, averaging 16.5 points and 7.4 rebounds per game. The 6-foot-9 forward’s presence in the paint and scoring ability make him a critical piece for the Bulldogs. Ike, alongside Nembhard, will be a veteran leader as Gonzaga aims to bounce back from last year’s disappointing tournament exit.
