As we know, each year, more and more players are entering the transfer portal. Whether it is to find a new home, get more playing time, or get paid more, some of the best players in the country are transferring every season. This past season, I was shocked by the number of key players on big teams who entered the portal. Today, I will break down three of my “Top Ten Ballers” who will take their team and their game to the next level this season through the portal.
Donovan Dent (New Mexico to UCLA)
Stats: 20.4 PPG, 2.3 RPG, 6.4 APG, 49% FG
After leading New Mexico to the second round of March Madness, Richard Pitino, the Lobos’ head coach, left for Xavier, which led Donovan Dent to follow suit. Donovan was a hidden gem playing at New Mexico with some very good teams under Pitino. If you watch college basketball, you know this kid can play. He’s a leader on the court with spectacular court vision, high vertical and a strong finish at the rim. Here are some of his key qualities and notable games he played against Power Four teams that show the impact he can have at UCLA:
- Leader
- Spectacular court vision
- High vertical
- Strong finish at the rim
Against UCLA, November 8th, 2024: 17 points, 8 assists
Against Arizona State, November 28th, 2024: 30 points, 7 assists
Against USC, November 29th, 2024: 17 points, 11 assists
Against VCU, December 18th, 2024: 40 points, 4 assists
Against Marquette, March 21st, 2025: 21 points, 6 assists
Against Michigan State, March 23rd, 2025: 14 points, 6 assists
Ryan Conwell (Xavier to Louisville)
Stats: 16.5 PPG, 2.5 RPG, 2.7 APG, 45% FG
Watching many of Ryan’s games last year, we learned just how good of a shooter he is. I’ve been watching him since Indiana State, but once he transferred up, it has become apparent that he can play with the best and be one of the best. He may be the best shooter in the country, which is exactly what Louisville needs. Some key qualities and notable games that demonstrate his impact:
- Volume Shooter
- Stepback Specialist
- Quick to the rim
- Clutch
- Shifty Guard
Against Villanova, January 14th, 2025: 34 points, 4 assists
Against Marquette, March 13th, 2025: 38 points, 3 assists
Boogie Fland (Arkansas to Florida)
Stats: 13.5 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 5.1 APG
Boogie is a very intriguing guard out of New York City. After high school, Boogie decided to commit to Arkansas and play for Coach Cal. Unfortunately, halfway through the season he was injured, limiting his play freshman year. I think Boogie will have an immediate impact as the #1 scorer and passer on this former national championship Florida team, despite key returners in Thomas Haugh and Alex Condon. Florida is also bringing in Xavien Lee from Princeton to fill the backcourt duo with Boogie. Expect a huge year from Boogie with a high draft pick following his season. Some key qualities and notable games:
- Volume Shooter
- Stepback Specialist
- Great finisher
- Electric passer
- Shifty Guard
- Tall Guard
Against Baylor, November 9th, 2024: 17 points, 7 assists
Against Michigan, December 10th, 2024: 20 points, 7 assists
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