UConn women’s basketball guard Qadence Samuels hits transfer portal after national championship win
In a surprising turn of events, Qadence Samuels, a promising guard for the UConn women’s basketball team, has entered the transfer portal following the Huskies’ triumphant national championship victory. This move has sparked discussions among fans and analysts alike, as Samuels was a key contributor to the team’s success during the 2023-24 season.Swish Appeal+2Swish Appeal+2University of Connecticut Athletics+2
A Rising Star at UConn
Samuels, a 6-foot guard from Forestville, Maryland, joined UConn as a highly touted recruit in the Class of 2023. Ranked as the No. 41 player nationally by ESPN, she was celebrated for her versatility and scoring ability. Her high school career at Bishop McNamara was marked by impressive statistics, including an average of 17.6 points and 7.8 rebounds per game during her junior year .ESPN.com+3The UConn Blog+3University of Connecticut Athletics+3University of Connecticut Athletics
Upon arriving at UConn, Samuels quickly made an impact. In her collegiate debut against Dayton, she scored 11 points, showcasing her scoring prowess. She followed this performance with a 14-point outing against NC State, earning her the BIG EAST Freshman of the Week honors . Throughout the 2023-24 season, she appeared in 36 games, averaging 5.0 points and 2.6 rebounds per game, and was instrumental in the Huskies’ run to the national championship .CT Insider+1University of Connecticut Athletics+1University of Connecticut Athletics+2University of Connecticut Athletics+2CT Insider+2University of Connecticut Athletics+1ESPN.com+1
The Decision to Transfer
Despite the team’s success, Samuels’ decision to enter the transfer portal has raised eyebrows. During the 2024-25 season, her playing time decreased, and she averaged just 1.5 points and 1.0 rebound per game, with a field goal percentage of 32.6% . This decline in performance, coupled with the return of several key players from injury, likely influenced her decision to seek a new opportunity.ESPN.com
The transfer portal has become a common avenue for student-athletes seeking increased playing time or a better fit within a program. For Samuels, this move represents a chance to find a role where she can continue to develop and contribute more significantly.
Looking Ahead
As Samuels explores her options, several programs may be interested in her talents. Her size and skill set make her a valuable asset for teams looking to bolster their backcourt. While specific schools have not been linked to her yet, her previous performances suggest she could make an immediate impact at the right program.
For UConn, Samuels’ departure opens up a scholarship spot that could be used to attract a transfer or recruit to strengthen their roster for the upcoming season. The Huskies continue to be a powerhouse in women’s college basketball, and this change may be part of their ongoing efforts to maintain their competitive edge.
Qadence Samuels’ journey from a standout freshman to a transfer portal entrant reflects the dynamic nature of college athletics. While her time at UConn was marked by significant achievements, her decision to move on signifies a new chapter in her basketball career. As she seeks a new program, Samuels remains a talented player with much to offer, and her next destination will undoubtedly benefit from her skills and experience.
