The Kansas basketball offseason has been anything but quiet. Head coach Bill Self and his staff have already added significant pieces to the roster in an effort to bounce back from last season’s disappointing finish. Transfer guards Jayden Dawson and Melvin Council Jr. are set to bolster the backcourt alongside incoming five-star freshman Darryn Peterson.
But the Jayhawks aren’t done making moves. A name to watch is Desmond Claude, a 6-foot-6 guard from USC who recently entered the transfer portal and ranks among the top available players. According to On3, Claude is scheduled to visit Florida on Thursday and is also weighing options from Kansas, North Carolina, and Virginia.
Desmond Claude Remains a Transfer Target for Kansas Basketball
Desmond Claude has emerged as a notable transfer target for the Jayhawks as they look to strengthen their backcourt. Claude first made a name for himself during his sophomore season at Xavier, where he led the team in both scoring and assists. After transferring to USC, he continued to impress, averaging 15.8 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game during the 2024-25 season. His ability to create offense—both for himself and his teammates—would be a valuable addition to Kansas’ roster.
College basketball analyst Travis Branham shared an update on Claude’s recruitment during the College Basketball Show, noting that Claude is visiting Florida this Thursday. “Florida is frankly the team to beat,” Branham said. “With Denzel Aberdeen entering the portal, it opened the door for Florida to make a strong push. Todd Golden needs an impact guard, and Claude fits that need perfectly.”
Still, Branham acknowledged that Kansas remains in the picture, though currently taking a “back seat.” That status could shift quickly depending on how the Florida visit unfolds.
If Claude were to commit to KU, he’d join a promising guard group featuring Melvin Council Jr., Jayden Dawson, and 5-star freshman Darryn Peterson. His potential fit alongside that trio makes this recruitment one to watch closely for Kansas fans—especially if Florida doesn’t seal the deal.
Leave a Reply