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It can be tough to keep up with the NCAA Division I transfer market. With news breaking pretty much every day, you’re bound to miss something. Don’t worry, we’re here to help. Introducing the Transfer Roundup, which will detail the ins and outs of the transfer market each week so that nothing important slips through the cracks.
Here’s the biggest news from this past week:
Miami makes a splash
Miami continues to win at the transfer game as the Canes snagged two heralded mid-major players. Jim Larranaga brought in FGCU star Zach Johnson, who was also considering Creighton, Louisville, and Arizona. Need proof of Johnson’s prowess? Then look no further than the ASUN championship game, in which he scored 27 points in the second half. Last season, the fiery guard averaged 16.1 points on 46 percent shooting.
The second has never played in a college basketball game but is expected to be a prolific scorer. It’s none other than Wyoming’s Anthony Mack, who missed last season due to concussions and is working to earn immediate eligibility. He was highly recruited in high school, receiving offers from some big name programs like Villanova.
First of All I Would Like To Thank My FGCU Family For Everything During My Time There The Relationships I Have Built Will Never Be Forgotten. With That Being Said I am Proud and Happy To Announce That I Will Be Attending The University of Miami For My Grad Year. #CANES pic.twitter.com/xYBawAH5QS
— Zach Johnson (@ZachJohns5n) April 20, 2018
Aaron Calixte commits to Oklahoma
The post-Trae Young era begins in Norman and that starts with a more-than-capable guard in ex-Maine star Aaron Calixte. After spurning Missouri and Grand Canyon to rep the Sooners, Calixte is well on his way to starting alongside Christian James. Immediately eligible and ready to contribute, Calixte averaged 16.9 points, 3.1 rebounds and 3.1 assists last year.
First off I would like to thank god for putting me in the position I am in today. Without him none of it would be possible. With that being said, I am excited to announce my commitment to Coach Lon Kruger & his staff at the University of Oklahoma!! #BoomerSooner pic.twitter.com/gycheJOEVR
— Aaron Calixte (@A_Calixte23) April 17, 2018
Transfer exoduses for Richmond and New Mexico
The Spiders and Lobos have taken huge hits on the transfer market, which will hinder both teams’ chances at postseason runs next year. Richmond struggled last year after the departure of T.J. Cline but was even worse than expected. Now, the Spiders have lost two of their five leading scorers. First, Khwan Fore announced his intention to transfer. Then De’Monte Buckingham was kicked off the team and is expected to transfer as well. Buckingham allegedly violated athletic department policy, but his specific rule violation remains unclear. The Lobos exceeded expectations last year in Paul Weir’s first season as head coach. They are set two lose three players, most notably Chris McNeal. They’ll suffer another tough loss if Troy Simons leaves as well.
Division II to Division I is trending
Zach Hankins, the D-II National Player of the Year from Ferris State, signed with Xavier this offseason. He averaged 15.1 points and 9.7 rebounds as a junior. Then came Malik Hardy to Florida Gulf Coast. This Nova Southeastern firecracker had 17 points per game as a freshman and even received looks from Villanova this offseason.