Auburn Basketball: Tracking the Top 10 Players in the 2025 CBB Transfer Portal and Their New Destinations

The college basketball transfer portal has become one of the most dynamic and crucial aspects of roster-building in recent years, particularly for programs looking to reload and improve quickly. With the 2025 college basketball season on the horizon, teams across the country are eyeing the top players who have entered the portal, hoping to land the next game-changer. Auburn basketball, under head coach Bruce Pearl, has long been one of the most competitive programs in the SEC, and with a strong transfer portal strategy, the Tigers are well-positioned to continue their success.

In this article, we will take a look at the top 10 players in the 2025 NCAA Transfer Portal and where they are heading next season. These players are among the most sought-after names, and their decisions will have a significant impact on the teams they join and the programs they leave behind.

1. Caleb Love (North Carolina to Auburn)

One of the most notable names in the 2025 transfer portal is Caleb Love, the former North Carolina guard who helped lead the Tar Heels to a national championship appearance in 2022. Known for his scoring ability, playmaking, and clutch performances in big moments, Love is one of the most coveted players in the portal.

After a somewhat tumultuous season at North Carolina, Love opted to enter the portal, and Auburn emerged as one of the leading suitors. Auburn’s fast-paced, up-tempo offense under Bruce Pearl could be an ideal fit for Love’s skill set. With the ability to score from anywhere on the court and the experience of playing in high-pressure situations, Love could be the missing piece Auburn needs to take their offense to the next level.

Auburn’s backcourt has been strong in recent years, and Love would add another dimension to an already talented group. His decision to transfer to Auburn has the potential to elevate the Tigers’ status as one of the top teams in the SEC.

2. L.J. Cryer (Baylor to Texas)

L.J. Cryer, a dynamic guard who has spent the last few years at Baylor, was a standout in the Bears’ successful run in the Big 12. With his ability to shoot from the perimeter and his ability to drive and create plays, Cryer has the potential to make an immediate impact wherever he lands. After entering the portal, Cryer committed to Texas, where he will join a program looking to build on its recent successes under head coach Chris Beard.

At Texas, Cryer will be part of a backcourt that includes some of the best players in the nation. His scoring ability and leadership will be crucial as the Longhorns aim to challenge for a national title in 2025. His decision to move to Texas makes sense, as it offers him the chance to play for a team with championship aspirations and to continue developing under one of the brightest minds in college basketball.

3. Jordan Walker (UAB to Auburn)

Jordan Walker, the talented point guard from UAB, became one of the hottest names in the transfer portal after an impressive season with the Blazers. Walker’s ability to distribute the ball and his scoring prowess have caught the attention of major programs across the country. Auburn, always looking to add depth to its backcourt, quickly entered the picture.

Walker’s commitment to Auburn would provide an immediate boost to the Tigers’ offense. Known for his high basketball IQ and leadership, Walker can run the offense effectively and create opportunities for his teammates. His ability to handle the ball and make plays will be vital in a high-speed, high-scoring system like the one Bruce Pearl runs. With Walker joining Auburn, the Tigers could have one of the most potent backcourts in college basketball.

4. Oscar Tshiebwe (Kentucky to Kansas)

Oscar Tshiebwe, one of the most dominant big men in college basketball over the past few seasons, made the surprising decision to enter the transfer portal after spending the majority of his career at Kentucky. Tshiebwe’s rebounding ability and presence in the paint have made him a force to be reckoned with in the SEC. Now, with his sights set on a new challenge, Tshiebwe has committed to Kansas.

Kansas, consistently one of the best programs in the country, will benefit immensely from Tshiebwe’s physicality and rebounding skills. His presence in the paint will immediately bolster Kansas’ frontcourt, making them an even tougher matchup for teams in the Big 12. Tshiebwe’s experience and leadership will be key as the Jayhawks look to continue their tradition of excellence.

5. Tyrese Hunter (Texas Tech to Arkansas)

Tyrese Hunter, the talented point guard from Texas Tech, was one of the top guards in the Big 12 during his time with the Red Raiders. Known for his ability to create for others, as well as his scoring prowess, Hunter quickly became a highly sought-after player in the transfer portal. After weighing several options, Hunter decided to commit to Arkansas.

Hunter’s fit at Arkansas seems like a natural one. The Razorbacks are known for their aggressive defense and fast-paced style of play, and Hunter’s ability to control the game and score efficiently will be an excellent addition to the program. As Arkansas continues to build a championship-contending team, Hunter’s leadership and playmaking ability will be crucial to their success in the coming seasons.

6. Khalil Shabazz (San Francisco to Michigan State)

Khalil Shabazz, the standout guard from San Francisco, had an impressive career in the West Coast Conference, becoming one of the most dangerous guards in the country. His scoring, ability to create plays, and clutch performances caught the attention of several high-profile programs. Ultimately, Shabazz committed to Michigan State.

At Michigan State, Shabazz will add depth to the Spartans’ backcourt, a team that has always prided itself on strong guard play and tough defense. His ability to play both on and off the ball will make him a versatile asset for Michigan State’s offense. Shabazz’s arrival could be a game-changer as Michigan State looks to compete for a Big Ten title and deep NCAA Tournament run.

7. Maxwell Lewis (Pepperdine to UCLA)

Maxwell Lewis, a dynamic forward from Pepperdine, had an exceptional year that earned him national recognition as one of the best prospects in the portal. His combination of length, athleticism, and scoring ability made him a standout at Pepperdine, and after entering the portal, he quickly became one of the most coveted players available. Lewis decided to commit to UCLA.

UCLA, a program with a storied tradition and perennial championship aspirations, is a perfect fit for Lewis. With his ability to score from anywhere on the floor and his defensive prowess, Lewis will contribute immediately to a Bruins team that is always among the nation’s elite. His decision to join UCLA solidifies the program as one of the favorites to contend for a national title in 2025.

8. Jaden Ivey (Purdue to Duke)

Jaden Ivey, one of the most explosive athletes in college basketball, announced his decision to transfer from Purdue to Duke after a standout season with the Boilermakers. Known for his incredible athleticism and ability to get to the rim, Ivey will be a major addition to the Blue Devils’ roster.

Ivey’s transition to Duke is a move that could make the Blue Devils one of the most dangerous teams in the nation. His speed and playmaking ability will allow him to thrive in Duke’s fast-paced offense. Coach Mike Krzyzewski, who has always valued athleticism and skill, will look to develop Ivey’s game even further as the Blue Devils look to reclaim their place atop the ACC and the national rankings.

9. Terrence Shannon Jr. (Texas Tech to Arizona)

Terrence Shannon Jr., a standout forward at Texas Tech, has long been known for his scoring and athleticism. His decision to transfer to Arizona gives the Wildcats one of the most explosive players in the country. Shannon’s decision to leave Texas Tech and join Arizona was a major move in the transfer portal world.

At Arizona, Shannon will contribute to an already stacked roster. Known for his elite scoring ability, he will provide Arizona with another offensive weapon. His combination of scoring, defense, and rebounding will make him a valuable asset for the Wildcats as they look to compete for a Pac-12 title and make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.

10. Brandon Miller (Alabama to Michigan)

Brandon Miller, a former standout at Alabama, decided to enter the transfer portal and land with Michigan. Miller’s scoring and defensive ability have made him one of the top players in the portal. With his size and versatility, Miller is expected to make an immediate impact for the Wolverines.

At Michigan, Miller’s ability to stretch the floor and play both forward spots will provide the Wolverines with much-needed depth. His scoring and defensive ability will complement Michigan’s style of play and give them another weapon to rely on throughout the 2025 season.

As the college basketball landscape continues to shift with the advent of the transfer portal, programs like Auburn are taking full advantage of the influx of talent. For the Tigers, their pursuit of high-caliber transfers such as Caleb Love and Jordan Walker shows their commitment to staying competitive in the SEC and nationally. The players heading to programs like Texas, Kansas, and UCLA will undoubtedly make significant impacts on their new teams.

For Auburn, it’s clear that the Tigers are building a roster capable of competing for championships, and the strategic use of the transfer portal will continue to play a pivotal role in their pursuit of greatness in the coming seasons.