Gamecocks Secure Austrian Power Forward Nordin Kapic to Bolster Frontcourt
In a significant move to reshape their roster for the upcoming 2025-2026 season, the South Carolina men’s basketball program has successfully landed a commitment from Austrian power forward Nordin Kapic via the NCAA transfer portal. The 6-foot-8, 245-pound Kapic, who most recently played for the UC San Diego Tritons, brings a blend of size, scoring ability, and experience that Head Coach Lamont Paris will undoubtedly value as he continues to rebuild the Gamecocks.
Kapic’s commitment, announced on Friday, April 25, 2025, marks the sixth addition for South Carolina through the transfer portal this offseason, signaling a clear strategy to inject proven talent into a team looking to improve its standing in the Southeastern Conference. He joins a transfer class that already includes guards Meechie Johnson (returning from Ohio State), Kobe Knox (from USF), Mike Sharavjamts (from Utah), center Christ Essandoko (from Providence), and forward Elijah Strong (from Boston College). This influx of players highlights the active approach Coach Paris is taking to construct a competitive squad.
Originally from Vienna, Austria, Kapic’s journey to South Carolina is an interesting one. Before his single season with UC San Diego, he spent two successful years at the Division II level with the Lynn Fighting Knights in Florida. During his time at Lynn, Kapic established himself as a dominant offensive force, earning Sunshine State Conference Freshman of the Year honors in the 2022-2023 season and First Team All-Sunshine State Conference accolades in the 2023-2024 campaign. In his two seasons with the Fighting Knights, he appeared in 52 games, starting 51, and averaged an impressive 19.3 points per game while shooting a highly efficient 51 percent from the field and 39 percent from beyond the arc. This scoring prowess and shooting touch from a player of his size are particularly intriguing for the Gamecocks.
In the 2024-2025 season at UC San Diego, competing in the Big West Conference, Kapic demonstrated his ability to contribute at the Division I level. He played in all 34 games for the Tritons, starting 33, and averaged 10.7 points and 5.2 rebounds per game. He also showcased his versatility by shooting 39 percent from the floor, 30.7 percent from three-point range, and 74.8 percent from the free throw line. His efforts were instrumental in UC San Diego’s successful run to the Big West Tournament title.
Kapic’s addition addresses a significant need for size and scoring in South Carolina’s frontcourt. Standing at 6-foot-8 and weighing over 240 pounds, he provides a physical presence in the paint that the Gamecocks may have lacked at times. His ability to score both inside and out adds a dimension to the offense that could make them more difficult to defend. Furthermore, his experience at both the Division II and Division I levels suggests he is prepared for the rigors of the SEC.
As an Austrian native, Kapic also represents the growing international influence in NCAA basketball. The 2025 Division I men’s and women’s basketball championships featured a significant number of international student-athletes, highlighting the global reach of the sport and the increasing trend of universities looking overseas for talent. Players from Europe, Canada, Australia, and Africa are increasingly making their mark on college basketball, bringing diverse skill sets and experiences to their respective teams. Kapic’s background playing on the U20 Austrian National Team further underscores his international experience and pedigree.
The transfer portal has become an increasingly vital tool for college basketball programs to quickly address roster needs and add experienced players. South Carolina’s active use of the portal this offseason reflects this trend. With several players departing the program, including senior guard Jamarii Thomas who has also entered the transfer portal, Coach Paris has moved swiftly to bring in players who can contribute immediately.
Looking ahead to the 2025-2026 season, Kapic is expected to play a key role in the Gamecocks’ frontcourt rotation. His scoring ability, rebounding, and physical presence will be valuable assets as they navigate a challenging SEC schedule. His versatility to play both in the post and step out to shoot the three-pointer could create mismatches for opponents and provide Coach Paris with strategic flexibility.
The impact of international players on NCAA basketball extends beyond just their on-court performance. They also contribute to the cultural diversity of college campuses and can broaden the appeal of the sport to international audiences. Kapic’s arrival at South Carolina will add another layer of international flavor to the program.
While Kapic has one year of eligibility remaining, there is a possibility that he could have more due to his time at the Division II level. This potential for extended eligibility could be a significant bonus for the Gamecocks in the long term.
In conclusion, the addition of Nordin Kapic is a significant win for the South Carolina men’s basketball program. His size, scoring ability, and experience at the Division I level address a clear need for the Gamecocks. As part of a substantial transfer class, Kapic will be expected to make an immediate impact and contribute to a team looking to climb the ranks in the SEC. His journey from Austria to the Big West and now to the SEC is a testament to the global nature of college basketball and the opportunities the transfer portal provides for both players and programs. Gamecock fans will be eagerly anticipating his contributions in the upcoming season.
