The 2024 college basketball offseason was a whirlwind, marked by surprising coaching changes and an active transfer portal that reshaped rosters across the country. Among the biggest moves were SMU’s firing of Rob Lanier, John Calipari’s unexpected departure from Kentucky to Arkansas, and the subsequent player transfers that followed. As the dust settled, CBS Sports’ David Cobb ranked the top 80 transfers, highlighting the top five players who are set to make significant impacts on their new teams.
1. Johnell Davis (FAU to Arkansas)
Johnell Davis, a key figure in FAU’s remarkable 2023 Final Four run, headlines the transfer rankings. With FAU failing to meet the high expectations set for 2023-24, Davis decided to join Arkansas, where he will be a cornerstone of John Calipari’s first Razorbacks roster. Known for his versatility, Davis is an elite shooter, hitting 41% from three-point range and excelling in catch-and-shoot situations. His ability to rebound and handle the ball makes him a vital asset in Arkansas’ new-look lineup, giving Calipari a player he can rely on both as a lead scorer and a complementary piece.
2. Kadary Richmond (Seton Hall to St. John’s)
Kadary Richmond’s move from Seton Hall to St. John’s is poised to bolster the Red Storm’s lineup. Richmond, a 6-6 guard, has developed into a proficient scorer and playmaker, particularly in pick-and-roll situations. Despite a dip in his three-point shooting percentage, Richmond improved his overall game, becoming a more efficient ball handler and a strong defensive presence. His size and skill set make him a matchup nightmare, and his ability to score against top defenses will be crucial for St. John’s in the upcoming season.
3. Tucker DeVries (Drake to West Virginia)
Tucker DeVries, who transferred alongside his father, Darian, from Drake to West Virginia, is set to lead the Mountaineers in their debut season together. DeVries is a formidable shooter, particularly effective in pick-and-roll scenarios where he posted impressive efficiency numbers. His ability to contribute in multiple areas—scoring, rebounding, and facilitating—will be key as West Virginia transitions to a new system under the DeVries duo.
4. AJ Storr (Wisconsin to Kansas)
AJ Storr, now entering his third program in three years, brings his scoring prowess to Kansas. Storr’s offensive versatility, particularly his ability to drive to the rim and score efficiently inside, will complement Kansas’ existing roster, which features standout players like Hunter Dickinson. Storr’s experience as a primary scoring option at Wisconsin will be invaluable as he adapts to a new role with the Jayhawks, potentially becoming a key contributor in their pursuit of a deep postseason run.
5. Oumar Ballo (Arizona to Indiana)
Oumar Ballo, a dominant post presence, joins Indiana as a perfect fit for Mike Woodson’s interior-focused offense. Standing at 7 feet tall and 260 pounds, Ballo excels in post-up situations and as a roller in pick-and-roll sets. His ability to score efficiently around the rim and his rebounding prowess will be central to Indiana’s game plan, especially as Woodson aims to maximize Ballo’s strengths in a system that heavily favors post play.
These top five transfers are set to have a significant impact on their new teams, with each player bringing unique skills and experience that could shape the landscape of college basketball in the 2024 season.
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