Key Highlights
- Keyshawn Hall leads Auburn with 20.3 points and 7.6 rebounds per game.
- Yaxel Lendeborg of Michigan scores 15 or more in recent wins against Indiana and Ohio State.
- Bennett Stirtz continues to pace Iowa’s backcourt, scoring 18.3 points per game.
- Dior Johnson of Tarleton State averages 23.6 points per game, ranking third nationally in scoring.
The Rise of Top Transfers
As the college basketball season progresses, transfers are proving to be a significant factor. The rankings highlight players who have stepped up and made an immediate impact since joining new teams mid-season. One such player is Keyshawn Hall at Auburn.
Keyshawn Hall, a senior forward who transferred from UCF this offseason after playing for UNLV and George Mason, has been a revelation for the Tigers.
Following a motivational talk with coach Steven Pearl, Hall poured in 15 points in the first half alone against Ole Miss, helping Auburn take an early lead they would not relinquish. “He said somebody on Florida’s gonna win Player of the Year,” Hall recounted. “That kind of got to me.” Hall continues to excel, averaging 20.3 points and 7.6 rebounds per game.
On the other end of the spectrum, Yaxel Lendeborg has been a consistent performer for Michigan. Despite a rough outing on Jan. 17 where he struggled with his scoring, Lendeborg bounced back in style, leading the Wolverines to victories over Indiana and Ohio State. Against the Hoosiers, he finished with 15 points, 7 rebounds, 2 blocks, and 3 steals, showcasing a well-rounded game.
Bennett Stirtz of Iowa has also been a standout transfer.
Despite Iowa’s struggles recently, Stirtz continues to be a key player in the Hawkeyes’ backcourt, averaging 18.3 points per game. His performance against then-No. 22 Clemson and rival Ohio State was crucial for keeping Iowa in contention.
Dior Johnson of Tarleton State has been on fire this season, scoring an average of 23.6 points per game. His performance against Southern Utah, where he scored 40 points, marked his seventh outing of 30 or more points and his fourth in a row. Johnson’s talent is undeniable, and coaches across the country are taking notice.
Risers and Fallers
Beyond our top ten list, there are several players who have made significant strides this season:
Donovan Dent of UCLA delivered his best game as a Bruin against then-No. 4 Purdue, leading with 23 points and 13 assists in front of a raucous home crowd. His improved play has helped UCLA secure four of their last five victories.
Ryan Conwell of Louisville, who transferred from Xavier, has been making an impact as well. Against Pitt, he poured in 24 points to help drive a 100-59 victory, and followed it up with another strong performance against Virginia Tech the next day. Conwell’s play is bolstering Louisville’s offense.
Conclusion
The transfer portal continues to be a dynamic force in college basketball, bringing experienced players into teams that are looking for an immediate boost. As we move closer to March Madness, these transfers could very well shape the outcomes of key matchups and ultimately influence the tournament brackets. Keep your eyes on Keyshawn Hall, Yaxel Lendeborg, Bennett Stirtz, and Dior Johnson as they continue to make their mark.
